The Florida Institute for National Security (FINS) proudly marked a significant milestone this January with the successful completion of the inaugural cohort of the FINS Talent Pipeline (FTP) Program. The conclusion ceremony, held on campus on the 17th, celebrated not only the achievements of the students but also FINS’ commitment to meeting its mission of producing a talent pipeline of AI and data science-knowledgeable professionals in support of national security.
During the event, students showcased their research findings to a distinguished panel of experts – including John Mulligan, Former Deputy Director of U.S. National Counterterrorism Center; Col. Richard “Scoop” Jackson, Walter Adams of EVI Holdings; Ben Amaba, Ph.D., PE, CPIM, LEED AP; and Greg Jenkins of Dynics, Inc. Together, these professionals bring nearly 200 years of collective experience in national security, underscoring FINS’ dedication to fostering innovative solutions for emerging challenges.
A Legacy of National Security Innovation
Established in 2012, FINS was the nation’s first academic institute dedicated to research in support of national security. Over the years, the institute has played a pivotal role in addressing critical challenges, driving collaboration between academia, government, and industry. Under the leadership of Damon Woodard, Ph.D., and Domenic Forte, Ph.D., FINS made a strategic shift in 2022 to focus on Applied Artificial Intelligence (AAI) and data science, embracing cutting-edge research to address complex and evolving security threats.
Bridging the AI Talent Gap
Launched in 2023, the FTP program was designed to address the growing demand for AI expertise in the federal government and beyond. “The FTP program equips students with both the technical proficiency and soft skills necessary for success in the national security field,” says Associate Director Forte. “By integrating coursework and research with training in communication, ethics, and leadership, FTP prepares graduates to not only identify and mitigate security threats but also to effectively convey complex concepts to policymakers, non-technical experts, and the public.”
A Commitment to Holistic Education
FINS emphasizes a comprehensive approach to AI education, aligning with the University of Florida’s AI Across the Curriculum initiative. By combining theoretical learning with hands-on research, students gain the expertise needed to tackle real-world challenges and emerge as future leaders in AI.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Impact
As we celebrate the success of our first FTP cohort, we remain focused on the future. FINS is actively seeking sustained funding to ensure the continued growth and impact of this program as we prepare to launch our second cohort. The FTP initiative has already proven its potential to drive innovation and cultivate top-tier AI talent for national security. With additional support, we can expand opportunities for undergraduate researchers and further strengthen the AI workforce.
For more information about the FINS Talent Pipeline and ways to support our mission, please visit our Collaboration and Support page or contact Program Coordinator Katherine Adams at katherineadams@ufl.edu.