Bridging Human and Machine through Data Science with Colonel David Beskow

Join us in this episode of Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact, where we welcome Colonel David Beskow, Academy Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering. COL Beskow discusses his extensive experience and insights on bridging the gap between humans and machines using data science, particularly in cyber, intelligence, and special operations.  

Learn about his fascinating journey from an infantry leader to the Chief Data Scientist at Army Cyber Command, his current role at West Point, and his cutting-edge research on generative AI, machine learning, and drone warfare. Get an inside look at the importance of becoming a data-centric force and how the U.S. Army leverages these technologies for operational success. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of data science in military and defense. 

00:00 Introduction to Colonel Dave Beskow 

00:12 Beskow's Background and Expertise 

01:55 The Importance of Data in the Army 

04:55 Challenges in Data Collection and Literacy 

10:16 Drone Warfare and Autonomous Systems 

16:50 Social Media and Bot Detection 

19:48 Generative AI and Future Challenges 

22:53 Understanding Synthetic Data 

23:28 Generative AI and Historical Context 

25:31 AI Hallucinations Explained 

26:26 Generative AI in Military Operations 

27:41 Operations Research Center at West Point 

29:13 Current Projects and Research 

33:22 Enriching Cadet Experience 

36:54 Personal Insights and Background 

41:44 Rapid Fire Questions 

43:46 Conclusion and Farewell 

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Credits:     

1. Guest: COL Dave Beskow: (https://www.westpoint.edu/research/centers-and-institutes/operations-research-center) 
2. Host: Brigadier General Shane Reeves: (http://linkedin.com/in/shane-reeves-7950a31b3)    
3. Recording: West Point Public Affairs-Visual Information    
4. Production: Growth Network Podcasts: (https://growthnetworkpodcasts.com)  
5. Publisher: West Point Press (https://westpointpress.com)    

This episode does not imply Federal endorsement.