Want to hear leaders’ oversight in harnessing cutting-edge tech for enhancing military efforts? Register here to be part of POC’s 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit and get access to exclusive content.
Aditi Kumar, the Deputy Director of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), is an esteemed leader in the upcoming 10th Annual Defense Research and Development Summit by the Potomac Officers Club.
A seasoned veteran in national security and government contracting research, Ms. Aditi Kumar is crucial in shaping the future of defensive strategies.
Learn more about Aditi Kumar and her contributions to the industry here.
A Look into Aditi Kumar of the Defense Innovation Unit
Aditi Kumar has been a vital member of the Department of Defense (DoD) since March 2021. She started her career as the Senior Advisor for Industrial Policy, then worked her way up to assuming the role of Deputy Director for the Defense Innovation Unit in October 2023.
In her current position, Ms. Kumar is paramount to propelling efficient collaboration among Military Departments, Joint Staff, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Through this teamwork, the DIU Deputy Director is empowered to deliver capabilities that align with warfighters’ requirements. Aditi Kumar’s leadership is also vital for teams focused on policy, international affairs, legislative affairs, and interagency partnerships.
During her time as a Senior Advisor, Ms. Kumar actively participated in the DoD’s most crucial initiatives. These include military installation, supply chain risk management, industrial production expansion and acceleration, and security assistance to Ukraine.
Aditi Kumar’s Professional Journey
Aditi Kumar’s expertise in advancing national security and defensive capabilities stems from her illustrious work experience at private and public institutions.
Outlined below are Ms. Kumar’s previous professional experience:
- Executive Director at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs – Harvard Kennedy School, from November 2018 to February 2021
- Principal at Oliver Wyman in 2018 (less than a year)
- Summer Analyst at the US Department of Treasury, from May 2016
- Engagement Manager at Oliver Wyman, from June 2013 to June 2015
- Consultant at Oliver Wyman, from September 2010 to May 2013
- Project Manager at the World Economic Forum, from May 2013 to May 2014
- Consultant at the Wharton Small Business Development Center, from December 2007 to May 2010
- Analyst at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, from May 2009 to August 2009
Aditi Kumar, Panel Speaker at the 10th Annual Defense Research and Defense Summit
The 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit is an upcoming event hosted by the Potomac Officers Club. Click here to become an official member and meet other esteemed government leaders.
By becoming an official POC member, you’ll get to watch Aditi Kumar and the roster of speakers at the 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit. They’ll share valuable insights on the future of U.S. military technologies and government efforts in navigating the virtual battlespace, deploying artificial intelligence capabilities, and many more.
Aditi Kumar will provide the mid-day keynote address and will be introduced by Dr. Jeff Pursel of Riverside Research.
Related article: A Guide to Potomac Officers Club’s Must-Attend January 2024 GovCon Events
Aditi Kumar’s Notable Contributions
One of the most significant industry contributions of Aditi Kumar for the first quarter of 2024 is the expansion of the Pentagon’s collaborators for the Replicators Initiative.
The Replicators program was first introduced by the Department of Defense in the latter months of 2023. Through this effort, the DoD produces a group of autonomous tools and capabilities that are resilient, attritable, and suitable for various functions across different domains. To achieve this, the Pentagon aims to speed up the development and deployment of these tools for the next 18 to 24 months.
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