CISA appoints first Chief AI Officer to enhance cybersecurity

Lisa Einstein has been appointed the first Chief AI officer at the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to spearhead the organization’s integration of artificial intelligence in its cybersecurity operations. The agency strategically positions itself in this way intending to improve national security while ensuring the responsible use of AI that supports critical infrastructure

Einstein has been part of CISA since 2022, previously serving as the Executive Director for its Cybersecurity Advisory Committee and Senior Advisor for AI. This appointment is part of efforts by the company to institutionalize governance around Artificial Intelligence (AI). According to Jen Easterly, Director at CISA, Lisa’s leadership skills and technical proficiency are unmatched, insisting that she was involved in a pilot program mandated by President Joe Biden’s executive order on Artificial Intelligence.

Welcome Lisa Einstein, CISA’s first ever Chief AI Officer. https://t.co/rWTOKQzs23 pic.twitter.com/1vgNmjdpsU

— Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (@CISAgov) August 1, 2024

Einstein stated her commitment to making critical systems safer, more reliable and more capable. She said that while tools powered by artificial intelligence can speed up progress, their benefits will only be realized if safety, security and trustworthiness in the development process are prioritized.

CISA implements a comprehensive AI strategy

CISA AI strategy, highlighted in its AI Roadmap focuses on five main areas. These areas include using AI responsibly to help the agency achieve its mission, securing AI systems, safeguarding critical infrastructure against malicious use of artificial intelligence (AI), working with interagency and international partners and increasing workforce knowledge about artificial intelligence. These efforts are intended to improve cybersecurity capabilities within the organization and protect it from cyber threats.

This approach by the agency involves using AI-enabled software tools for cyber defense enhancement, developing best practices for secure adoption of AI and partnering with other government entities or private sector organizations. The comprehensive strategy seeks to ensure responsible AI use across all aspects of CISA operations while protecting vital infrastructure.

Einstein stated that she cares deeply about making critical systems safer, more reliable and more capable for US residents who depend on them. She noted that while AI tools may accelerate progress benefits will only be realized when development and deployment prioritize safety, security and trustworthiness.

CISA Director Jen Easterly highlighted Einstein’s central role in the agency’s AI initiatives due to her inspiring leadership style coupled with technical prowess. According to Easterly, Einstein has what it takes to ensure that CISA effectively incorporates artificial intelligence into its future operational framework.