Space Force CTIO Lisa Costa Announces Retirement

The U.S. Space Force’s chief technology and innovation officer has confirmed her retirement from government service in a LinkedIn post.

Lisa Costa, a former Potomac Officers Club speaker and a past Wash100 awardee, joined the military branch in 2021 as its first CTIO.

During her tenure, she played a significant role in developing and modernizing the Unified Data Library, a cloud-based repository for space domain awareness, using artificial intelligence and machine learning, DefenseScoop reported.

She also promoted upgrades to the Spaceverse virtual environment for training guardians and the Integrated Operations Network in support of the Space Force’s goal to build a digitally fluent workforce.

“From helping define the role of Special Operations in the War on Terror to shaping homeland defense and bringing irregular warfare to space, my career has been marked by pivotal roles and groundbreaking initiatives,” Costa said in her LinkedIn post.

According to the Department of the Air Force, Col. Nathan Iven will serve as CTIO in an acting capacity while it seeks a permanent replacement.