Caroline S. Brooks

I attribute my success to a combination of relentless curiosity, strategic communication, and the ability to bridge worlds that don’t always speak the same language. My career has always been about finding the connective tissue between complex technology and the people who need to understand, trust, and use it - whether that’s an engineer refining an AI model or a decision-maker shaping defense policy. I’ve learned that deep preparation creates confidence, but adaptability creates opportunity. I invest in understanding the details - the data, the systems, the stakeholders - and then stay agile enough to pivot when the landscape shifts, which it inevitably does in technology and defense. Equally important, I’ve built my career on relationships and collaboration. I believe the best results come from teams that share knowledge openly and respect each other’s expertise. My role often involves translating, aligning, and clarifying - but also inspiring people to see the bigger picture and the mission we’re serving. And finally, I never stop learning. Whether it’s earning advanced degrees, diving into the latest AI research, or volunteering my skills for nonprofits, I see every project as a chance to expand my perspective. That mindset - balancing expertise with humility and a drive to keep improving - is what has carried me forward in every role I’ve taken on.

The best career advice I’ve ever received was: “Learn to speak in every room you walk into - from the server room to the boardroom.” It taught me that success isn’t just about what you know; it’s about making your expertise accessible and relevant to whoever you’re speaking with. In my work - whether I’m discussing AI model integrity with engineers or briefing senior defense officials - that adaptability has been my greatest tool. I also took to heart the idea that you don’t wait for permission to lead. If you see a gap, fill it. If you see a better way, propose it. Some of the most meaningful breakthroughs in my career came from leaning in when it would have been easier to stay quiet. Ultimately, the advice distilled down to this: be technically excellent, communicate clearly, and have the courage to act before you’re asked. Those three things will carry you further than any job title ever will.

First, understand that expertise is your best armor. The defense and technology sectors can be intense, high-stakes environments, and credibility comes from knowing your subject inside and out. Invest in your skills - in AI, in communication, in whatever niche you choose - and keep learning even when you think you’ve mastered it. Second, own your voice. You will walk into rooms where you’re the only woman, the youngest person, or both. Don’t let that change how you contribute. Speak with clarity, back your ideas with evidence, and don’t shrink to fit someone else’s expectations of how you “should” show up. Third, find your allies and build your network deliberately. In this industry, relationships can open doors that credentials alone cannot. Seek out mentors who will advocate for you, peers who will challenge you, and teams who recognize your value. Finally - and this is important - don’t lose your perspective. AI and defense work can be consuming, but remember why you’re here: to contribute to something that matters. Anchor yourself in that mission, and it will guide you through the complexities, the politics, and the inevitable challenges along the way.

Right now, the greatest challenge - and opportunity - in AI for the defense sector is the same: trust. We are developing AI systems that can make decisions at speeds and scales humans can’t match, but with that comes a responsibility to ensure those systems are transparent, reliable, and aligned with our values. The challenge is building AI that works flawlessly under real-world conditions, in environments where the cost of error is measured in lives, not just lost revenue. The opportunity is that we have a unique chance to set the standard for how AI is integrated into national security. This means not only refining the technology itself but also shaping the policies, ethical frameworks, and governance models that will define AI’s role in defense for decades to come. We’re at a turning point where AI can either be a trusted force multiplier - accelerating intelligence analysis, improving decision-making, and protecting service members - or a source of risk if deployed without sufficient oversight. Those of us in this space have the rare privilege and responsibility to make sure it’s the former.

Integrity is at the core of everything I do. In both work and life, I believe your credibility is your most valuable asset — and once you compromise it, it’s hard to recover. In the AI and defense space, where trust and accuracy are paramount, integrity isn’t optional; it’s the foundation. I also value clarity - not just in communication, but in intent. Whether I’m writing an AI red teaming playbook or navigating personal relationships, I believe in being direct, transparent, and focused on what matters most. Another value I hold close is responsibility. If I take something on - whether it’s a project that impacts national security or a commitment to a friend - I own it fully. I believe in showing up prepared, following through, and delivering with excellence. Finally, I value curiosity. It’s what keeps me learning, innovating, and finding better ways to solve problems. In both professional and personal settings, curiosity keeps life interesting and challenges me to grow beyond my comfort zone.