UNG hosts international intelligence ed conference

"The diversity of topics presented here reflects the evolving operational environment in which intelligence professionals must function - an environment shaped by hybrid threats, malign foreign influence, AI-enabled deception, geopolitical competition and rapidly changing information ecosystems," Mienie said. "As conference chair, I am delighted that UNG could host the IAFIE Annual Global Conference with attendees from 20 countries participating. This conference falls within the bull's-eye of the national security strategic big bet. Feedback received from many attendees, including keynote speakers, overwhelmingly spoke of the excellence in planning and executing this conference in addition to the high quality of presentations made by panelists."

Some speakers explored the importance of leveraging intelligence tools in ethical ways that can stand up to the public scrutiny inherent in a democracy in the 21st century. Others noted the security risks posed by artificial intelligence models that are run by adversaries.

"IAFIE's mission is to advance the field of intelligence education, and UNG provided the perfect environment to do just that. Dr. Eddie Mienie, Dr. Rose Procter, and the entire UNG team went above and beyond to deliver an exceptional conference," IAFIE President Kathy Pherson said. "The insight, academic energy and world-class hospitality we experienced in Dahlonega have set a remarkably high standard for future IAFIE gatherings."

The conference also delved into the importance of industry and governments working together to support national security interests. Another topic was the importance of communities of practice pooling their resources to create timely, actionable intelligence that can thwart threats.