The Defense Innovation Board (DIB) has approved two recommendations meant to boost innovation at the Defense Department, DoD News reported Wednesday.The recommendations include the establishment of a new innovation, science, technology, engineering and mathematics career field as well as the creation of a technology and innovation training program for senior DoD leaders.
DIB held a closed meeting in the Pentagon and a public meeting in another location in Arlington, Virginia.
Marne Levine, DIB member and chief operating officer of Instagram, said that the new career field will help DoD retain personnel with in-demand STEM skills.
During the open meeting, experts presented analysis related to DoD’s innovation activities and the board also heard from members of the public.
DoD officials joined the closed session to discuss efforts to boost workforce innovation capacity; optimize operational practices; and leverage technology advances.
DIB postponed a vote on two other recommendations due to the need for further discussions.
The other recommendations would direct DoD to design a fast-track for major technology projects and to develop and implement new ideas from the field.
The board holds meetings quarterly, with the next session scheduled in April.
