On Monday, NASA hired their first chief artificial intelligence officer. The role was given to David Salvagnini, who was already the chief data officer.
“Artificial intelligence has been safely used at NASA for decades, and as this technology expands, it can accelerate the pace of discovery. It’s important that we remain at the forefront of advancement and responsible use. In this new role, David will lead NASA’s efforts to guide our agency’s responsible use of AI in the cosmos and on Earth to benefit all humanity.”
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson
The action was taken in accordance with President Biden’s Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence. David Salvagnini is now responsible for planning AI usage across NASA. He will support the development and risk management of tools, platforms, and training.
David joined NASA in June 2023, after more than 20 years of working in technology leadership in the intelligence community. Before that, he served the Office of the Director of National Intelligence as Director of the Architecture and Integration Group and Chief Architect.