NASA Names David Salvagnini as New Chief AI Officer

NASA has appointed David Salvagnini as chief artificial intelligence officer, expanding his existing responsibilities as the space agency’s chief data officer.

In his new role, Salvagnini will be responsible for aligning the strategic vision and planning for AI usage within the agency and facilitating partnerships with academic institutions and other experts on the development of AI technology.

According to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, Salvagnini will play a role in ensuring that the agency uses AI in a responsible manner.

The appointment is in accordance with recent White House guidance and President Joe Biden’s executive order on AI, FedScoop reported.

Salvagnini, who replaces Kate Calvin as chief AI officer, has more than two decades of technology leadership experience in the intelligence community, including time spent as director of the architecture and integration group and chief architect at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

He also served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years.