An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

My Coast Guard
Commentary | Nov. 22, 2023

'Digital On-Demand': A Game-Changer for Coast Guard AI Learning

By Jason Allred, MyCG Web Editor

The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) just launched "Digital On-Demand" in an attempt to speed up artificial intelligence (AI) knowledge within the Department of Defense (DoD). Through this groundbreaking initiative, the Department of Defense military and civilian workforce gets access to MIT Horizon's vast library of learning resources.   

Established in June 2022, the CDAO is dedicated to integrating and optimizing AI capabilities across the DoD. It accelerates the adoption of data, analytics, and AI to empower decision-making from the boardroom to the battlefield. For more information, visit ai.mil, and stay connected on LinkedIn and X. Additional updates and news can be found on the CDAO Unit Page on DVIDS.  

Unlocking AI Knowledge  

MIT Horizon's learning platform offers a baseline understanding of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies  and gives Coast Guard members flexible, mobile-friendly learning options for advancing their professional knowledge and abilities.  

The initiative is possible thanks to Digital University, a collaboration site between the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. Users can learn new technologies, understand definitions, and explain terms and concepts easily with Digital On-Demand as a foundational learning tool and quick reference guide.   

Diverse Learning Opportunity 

A broad spectrum of topics are covered by MIT Horizon's online platform in bite-sized chunks covering AI capabilities and a wide range of emerging technologies. A wealth of resources are now available to Coast Guard members for gaining knowledge of topics such as: 

  • Internet of Things (IoT) 
  • 5G 
  • Edge Computing 
  • Generative AI 
  • Cybersecurity 
  • Big Data Analytics 
  • Block Chain 

The list isn't comprehensive, but an overview of what's available right now at scale. 

Speaking a common language  

Kathleen Kennedy, senior director of MIT Horizon, emphasizes the importance of a common language within the DoD's digital workforce journey. The initiative aligns with the DoD's historical effort to build a cohesive digital workforce capable of navigating the complexities of AI and emerging technologies. Using standard language for digital work will help the DoD equip its employees with the knowledge to apply new technologies and facilitate team collaboration and communication. The future of our workforce depends on solutions like these. 

Digital On-Demand's launch follows a successful soft launch this summer for members of the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). In a pilot program conducted in August 2022, approximately 91% of participants found that the content broadened their understanding of AI, with 97% deeming it relevant to their roles.  

Ready to learn?  

To access this transformative service, Coast Guard members can visit digitalu.af.mil, click "Register," create an account with a ".mil" email, and search for "MIT Horizon."   

Resources  

-USCG-