OpenAI Hires Dan Driscoll for National Security

OpenAI has enlisted the services of Dan Driscoll, former Secretary of the Army, for a unique advisory role in national security modernization. The company emphasizes cyber resilience, an AI described as democratic, and cooperation with the United States' allies.

Driscoll arrives with a proven mandate across a broad scope

While leading the Army, Dan Driscoll managed resources for nearly one million soldiers across active, Guard, and Reserve components, and oversaw more than 265,000 civilians. As the 26th Secretary of the Army, he covered operations, modernization, and resources of the service. He led the transformation of the institution by accelerating the deployment of new technologies, reforming acquisitions, and working to build a more capable force. His background combines military service, government roles, and responsibilities in the private sector, with experience that also extends to law.

A unique position to articulate advanced AI and operational needs

OpenAI is creating a Senior Advisor position for national security modernization and has announced that Dan Driscoll will join the company in this capacity. His stated mission is to advise leadership and partners on the use of advanced AI for national security and cybersecurity, with a focus on responsible implementation alongside U.S. allies. He will collaborate with OpenAI teams, governments, industry, academia, and allied institutions to drive modernization initiatives supporting what is termed democratic AI. The role includes assisting internal teams in understanding the needs of security institutions globally, advising public and private stakeholders on policy and strategy choices, and identifying intersections between operational needs, institutional changes, and emerging AI capabilities.

OpenAI links this appointment to Daybreak and a "democratic" direction

OpenAI describes this arrival as a manifestation of its commitment to support democratic institutions in the responsible use of advanced AI for common security. The company also connects this initiative to its collaborations with allies and partners to enhance cyber resilience and ensure the protection of essential services under the Daybreak program. Sam Altman asserts that AI should empower individuals, who should have a say in its development. He adds that the United States has the opportunity to promote, alongside other countries, the adoption of democratic AI and welcomes Dan Driscoll to strengthen American leadership in this regard.

The roadmap expressed by Driscoll regarding uses and pace

Dan Driscoll recalls a career marked by public service, from the rank of soldier to Secretary of the Army, including a stint as Acting Director of the ATF. He states that those who serve must have access to the best available tools and believes that national security requirements are evolving faster than they have in the past fifty years. He envisions concrete uses of technology to simplify paperwork, process more information, and deliver quicker, tailored responses. He says he is joining OpenAI to contribute to a responsible deployment for the benefit of the United States and its allies, serving those responsible for protection.