Driving Innovation in the Air Force: CTO Darek Kitlinski on AI, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Advancements
As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, ensuring operational efficiency, security, and innovation within the Air Force A1 directorate is a mission-critical task. At the forefront of this transformation is Darek Kitlinski, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Air Force A1, who is spearheading strategic modernisation initiatives to enhance cloud computing, AI, machine learning (ML), and cybersecurity capabilities.
With a career spanning decades of military and IT leadership, Kitlinski brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic foresight to the role. Under his leadership, A1 is driving the adoption of zero-trust architectures, multi-cloud solutions, and DevSecOps methodologies to bolster national defense readiness and maintain technological superiority.
In this exclusive interview, Darek Kitlinski shares insights into his approach to modernisation, the challenges of interoperability, and the future of emerging technologies in the Air Force. He discusses how AI, ML, and cloud advancements are shaping mission-critical operations and ensuring the Air Force remains agile, secure, and ready for the challenges ahead.
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Professional Journey: Can you share your career path and what led you to your current role as Chief Technology Officer for the Air Force Manpower, Personnel, and Services (A1)?
At the age of 17, I enlisted in the Air Force Reserves while still in high school. As a jet engine mechanic, I developed a deep understanding of technical systems and military operations. After 11 years, I transitioned to the Coast Guard Reserves, where I served as a Sea Marshal and Port State Control Inspector. These roles introduced me to the complexities of maritime security and logistics.
Later, I moved into IT-related roles within the Coast Guard, overseeing critical technology projects and gaining expertise in digital transformation and cybersecurity. I also served in Federal Law Enforcement as a Supervisory Special Agent, leading technical operations in San Diego, where I was responsible for complex investigations and technical initiatives.
Over my 31 years of military service, I cultivated a unique blend of technical, operational, and leadership skills. Today, as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Air Force A1, my career has come full circle, allowing me to leverage my military and IT experience to drive innovation and mission success.
Role of Technology in A1 Operations: How does your role as CTO contribute to the overall mission of the A1 directorate, and what are some of the key technological priorities you oversee?
As CTO for the Air Force A1, I play a critical role in aligning technological advancements with the directorate’s mission to support personnel and services operations globally. I lead initiatives to modernise A1’s IT infrastructure, ensuring it is secure, scalable, and mission-ready. Key priorities include advancing multi-cloud strategies, implementing zero-trust architectures, modernising legacy applications through DevSecOps practices, and spearheading the modernisation of the A1 multi-cloud ecosystem landing zone with the latest technologies such as SASE and DevSecOps. I also oversee the integration of emerging technologies to streamline operations and improve service delivery for Air Force personnel worldwide. By fostering collaboration and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, I ensure IT serves as a critical enabler of A1’s mission objectives.
AI and Machine Learning Integration: You’ve emphasised the use of AI and ML for operational efficiency. Can you provide examples of how these technologies are being implemented within A1 operations?
AI and ML are integral to A1’s operational efficiency. For instance, predictive analytics powered by ML are optimising personnel assignments and enhancing readiness. AI-driven tools automate routine administrative tasks, freeing up resources for higher-value activities. Advanced algorithms analyse vast data sets to provide actionable insights, improving decision-making and resource allocation.
AI and ML have two prerequisites—DevSecOps and Enterprise Cloud. I am establishing the foundation to enable the AI and ML of today and tomorrow, both at unclassified and classified levels. These efforts lay the groundwork for advanced applications, including intelligent automation and predictive modeling, ensuring A1’s technological capabilities remain at the forefront of innovation and operational agility.
Cloud Computing Advancements: Cloud computing is a critical component of modern IT infrastructure. What are the primary challenges and achievements in advancing cloud solutions within the Air Force?
Cloud computing is a cornerstone of A1’s IT strategy. Our journey began in 2017 with the establishment of a multi-cloud landing zone and the sponsorship of platforms like Okta, Salesforce, and ServiceNow into the DoD environment. This approach has enhanced scalability and resilience while ensuring compliance with DoD security requirements.
I continue to drive this forward-leaning momentum by recruiting top talent into the government workforce and building strong partnerships with industry leaders such as AWS, Oracle, Google, and Microsoft.
Key challenges include migrating legacy systems, ensuring interoperability, and addressing unique multi-cloud security vulnerabilities. However, we have made significant progress, including the deployment of cloud-native applications and the establishment of robust governance frameworks. These advancements position A1 to support dynamic mission needs while fostering innovation and operational efficiency across the ecosystem.
Cybersecurity and Network Management: With increasing cyber threats, how is A1 enhancing its cybersecurity measures to protect critical communications-computer systems and sensitive data?
Cybersecurity is a top priority for A1, built on three core pillars: governance, architecture, and risk management. Multi-cloud solutions introduce unique vulnerabilities due to the way clouds are interconnected, requiring enhanced visibility and analysis of inter-cloud traffic to mitigate risks effectively.
To strengthen security, A1 has adopted a zero-trust model, deploying advanced identity management systems, real-time threat detection tools, and robust encryption standards. Collaborative efforts with DoD agencies ensure compliance with federal mandates while continuously enhancing our cybersecurity posture.
By addressing multi-cloud challenges and implementing comprehensive security measures, A1 not only protects sensitive data but also ensures seamless and secure operations across its global network. These initiatives underscore our commitment to maintaining the integrity and resilience of mission-critical systems.
Modernisation and Innovation: What steps are being taken to modernise legacy systems, and how do these advancements align with the broader goals of the Department of Defence?
Modernising legacy systems is essential for A1 to maintain operational efficiency. We are transitioning outdated applications to cloud-native platforms, leveraging automation to streamline workflows and reduce redundancies. These efforts align with broader DoD goals by enhancing agility, improving scalability, and reducing costs.
By incorporating AI and ML, we are enabling data-driven decision-making, improving response times, and optimising resource allocation. Additionally, A1’s modernisation initiatives include adopting DevSecOps practices, ensuring the faster delivery of secure and reliable solutions.
These advancements demonstrate A1’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence, ensuring it remains agile and mission-ready in an evolving technological landscape.
Collaboration Across Departments: As a liaison between A1, the Air Staff, and the DoD, how do you foster collaboration to ensure alignment and effective implementation of technological strategies?
Collaboration is a cornerstone of my role as CTO. I engage with Air Staff, DoD leaders, and key stakeholders to align strategies and ensure the cohesive implementation of technology initiatives. Regular participation in cross-functional forums and working groups allows us to address challenges collectively and leverage diverse expertise to drive innovation.
Additionally, I focus on fostering partnerships with industry leaders to integrate cutting-edge solutions into A1’s ecosystem. This collaborative approach ensures that A1’s technological advancements are seamlessly integrated into the broader defence ecosystem, enhancing mission success and operational efficiency across the organisation.
Strategic Planning for Emerging Technologies: How do you balance the integration of emerging technologies with the need to maintain operational stability and security in mission-critical environments?
Integrating emerging technologies requires a careful balance between innovation and stability. We adopt a phased approach, rigorously testing new solutions before deployment to mitigate risks. For example, our implementation of AI in personnel management systems involved incremental rollouts to ensure reliability and security without disrupting operations.
By prioritising technologies that align with mission objectives, we successfully integrate intelligent automation, predictive analytics, and enhanced cybersecurity measures. These efforts are reinforced by robust risk management processes, ensuring that A1 can drive innovation while maintaining operational integrity and mission readiness.
Leadership in Complex Technical Issues: As a technical authority, how do you approach resolving interoperability challenges within the Air Force’s diverse communications-computer systems?
Addressing interoperability challenges within A1’s diverse systems requires a strategic and collaborative approach. I lead efforts to establish standardised governance frameworks and facilitate cross-departmental communication, ensuring seamless integration across platforms.
For example, our adoption of multi-cloud shared services reflects our commitment to enhancing interoperability, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining mission readiness. By fostering a culture of innovation and accountability, we ensure that technical challenges are met with effective, sustainable solutions.
Additionally, I prioritise continuous learning and workforce development, equipping teams with the skills and expertise needed to navigate complex technical landscapes and advance A1’s mission objectives.
Future Outlook for Technology in the Air Force: Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for technological innovation within A1, and how do you see advancements in AI, ML, and cloud computing shaping the future of the Air Force?
Looking ahead, my focus is on advancing AI, ML, and cloud computing capabilities to further enhance A1’s operational readiness. Key priorities include strengthening cybersecurity through zero-trust architectures, optimising IT operations with DevSecOps, and leveraging data analytics to drive strategic insights.
By embracing cutting-edge technologies, we aim to improve decision-making, optimise resource allocation, and enhance mission readiness. These advancements will ensure A1 remains agile and responsive to evolving defence needs, positioning the Air Force to maintain technological superiority in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment.
