Will Roberts' Senate Testimony: Governing AI Through Acquisition and Procurement

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Will Roberts, former head of Acquisitions for the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC)/Chief Digital and AI Officer (CDAO), Office of the Department of Defense in Arlington, Virginia, current Director of Acquisition Solutions for ASI testified on Capitol Hill, to the Senate Government Affairs and Oversight Committee on "Governing AI Through Acquisition and Procurement" shedding light on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on government. Roberts injected creativity and the energy of mission accomplishment into a function that has traditionally been seen as a back-office business transaction. Recent developments in Large Language Models and Generative AI have made the technology more powerful and easier to use. Like any emerging advanced technology, effectively buying and using it brings new kinds of benefits and risks and requires reskilling of the acquisition workforce.

Roberts spoke of the historically important role of our American contracting officer, whom he referred to as the "American Government Dealmaker" and how US history can be summarized as a series of business transactions. This is because the Government has always needed to rely – and will continue to rely – on the ingenuity of industry to provide us with innovations that provide welfare, peace, and security to our citizens.

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) represents a pivotal moment in history, and there is a pressing need for American Government Dealmakers and policymakers to take proactive steps to harness its potential. Here are some key points to consider:

• Training and Workforce Development: To effectively leverage AI, there is a critical need for comprehensive training and workforce development programs. This includes both upskilling the existing workforce and preparing the next generation for AI-related roles. Investment in education and training is essential to ensure that there is a knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of driving AI initiatives.

• Mission Transformation: AI has the potential to revolutionize various missions, from healthcare and defense to transportation and education. Government deal makers and policymakers should explore how AI can be integrated into these missions to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and achieve cost savings.

• Modern Digital Acquisition: Traditional procurement methods may not be suitable for acquiring AI technologies. Modernizing acquisition processes to accommodate AI solutions is crucial. This may involve streamlining bureaucratic processes, encouraging innovation, and fostering partnerships with private-sector AI experts and businesses.

• Specialized Knowledge: Dealing with AI requires specialized knowledge, not just in AI techniques and market segments but also non-FAR authorities, cloud services, technology stacks and the risks associated with the responsible use to include data governance, ethics, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance. Government agencies must have access to experts who understand these complexities to make informed decisions.

As a member of the winning team in a challenge from OMB in 2014, ASI developed and continues to deliver modern Digital IT Acquisition Professional (DITAP) training to government identified members of the acquisition workforce. The American Government Dealmakers (Acquisition Team members) need more. Roberts called for mandatory, government-wide training for all incoming acquisition professionals. AI Acquisition training cannot be a niche. It cannot be treated as "basics" – it must be inspirational, substantive, and interesting. Most importantly, it must ignite zeal within the professional hearts of our acquisition workforce. Only then will they be willing and able to step back into their historical role as an "American Government Dealmaker" of AI for the future.

Recommendations for Policymakers: Roberts concluded by offering actionable recommendations for policymakers to navigate the AI landscape effectively, promoting innovation while safeguarding society and recommended DITAP as possible transition path to the future.

Will Roberts' testimony is expected to inform and shape legislative discussions around AI policy, regulation, and ethical guidelines. As AI permeates the federal government, his expertise promises to be invaluable in guiding Congress in making informed decisions for the future.

For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information about the testimony, please contact Stacey O'Neill at [email protected]

SOURCE ASI Government

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