CISA steps up AI game with Lisa Einstein as new chief AI officer

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has announced the appointment of its first Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer, Lisa Einstein.

This strategic move underlines CISA’s dedication to enhancing its cyber defense capabilities through responsible AI usage, aiding critical infrastructure owners and operators across the United States.

CISA plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s cybersecurity and infrastructure. The agency is committed to advancing cyber defense missions and ensuring the secure development and adoption of AI technologies. This is done to support infrastructure operators nationwide in enhancing their security frameworks and resilience against potential threats.

Lisa Einstein has been instrumental in spearheading CISA’s AI initiatives, holding the position of Senior Advisor for AI since 2023. Her previous role as Executive Director of the CISA Cybersecurity Advisory Committee since 2022 has equipped her with extensive experience and a profound understanding of AI’s implications on cybersecurity and infrastructure protection.

Einstein’s leadership is marked by her ability to inspire and unify her colleagues. She has played a crucial role in addressing rapid advancements in AI technology that significantly impact core missions of cyber defense and critical infrastructure security.

The creation of the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer position at CISA signifies a strategic emphasis on embedding AI expertise within the agency. This move aims to ensure that AI technologies are leveraged safely and effectively, aligning with the broader goals of national security and infrastructure resilience.

CISA Director Jen Easterly commented, “I am proud of how our team at CISA has come together in the last two years to understand and respond to rapid advancements in AI—many of which have significant implications for our core missions of cyber defense and critical infrastructure security,”. She added, “Lisa Einstein has been central to that effort. Beyond her technical expertise, she’s an inspirational leader who has brought together colleagues across the agency around a clear and impactful vision. I could not be more thrilled to have her take on this important new role, which will help us continue to build AI expertise into the fabric of our agency and ensure we are equipped to effectively leverage the power of AI well into the future.”

Lisa Einstein said, “I care deeply about CISA’s mission – if we succeed, the critical systems that Americans rely on every day will become safer, more reliable, and more capable. AI tools could accelerate our progress. But we will only reap their benefits and avoid harms from their misapplication or abuse if we all work together to prioritize safety, security, and trustworthiness in the development and deployment of AI tools,”.

She also mentioned, “It has been a privilege to work with the dedicated and talented CISA team and with our partners across the United States and around the world over the last two years. I am honored to serve in this new role to help CISA tackle this important challenge.”

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