The federal government can no longer treat artificial intelligence as optional—but what does true AI readiness actually look like?

On this episode of Security Clearance Insecurity, host Lindy Kyzer sits down with Jennifer Ewbank, former Deputy Director of the CIA for Digital Innovation, to unpack how AI is reshaping national security missions, workforce expectations, and accountability across government.

Rather than focusing on tools or pilot programs, Ewbank makes the case for a mission-first approach to AI—one that prioritizes readiness, governance, and human judgment. The conversation explores why digital literacy must become foundational for the entire federal workforce, how AI and cybersecurity skills are increasingly intertwined, and why uniquely human skills like critical thinking, ethics, and adaptability matter more than ever.

They also dive into the realities holding agencies back—from messy data environments and compliance-driven culture to slow hiring pipelines and outdated talent systems—and why the greatest risk to government may be standing still while technology accelerates.

Whether you’re a clearance holder, hiring leader, policymaker, or technologist, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it will take to responsibly scale AI across federal missions—without losing accountability, transparency, or trust.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.