Lisa Costa, PhD, MBA

I’m a formidable leader at the intersection of innovation, strategy, and enterprise risk management with a career spanning over three decades in high-level roles within the US government and private sector. As the inaugural Chief Technology and Innovation Officer for the United States Space Force, I drove the creation of the world’s first fully digital military service, managing a significant science and technology portfolio based on Space Futures, M&S, digital engineering, energy programs, and cyber security. My efforts significantly shaped the strategic use of space for defense, integrating commercial technologies and systems into the fabric of national security.
Earlier in my career, I played a critical role in the establishment and technological advancement of the United States Special Operations Command (SOCOM), supporting elite units with cutting-edge capabilities. From inventing new sensors, algorithms, and processes to implementing AI at scale across all classifications for data mining and targeting, I helped establish SOF as a technological leader in the intelligence and international community. My strategic oversight and management of SOF’s substantial IT infrastructure, as the J6 and Chief Information Officer, set a foundation for SOCOM%27s enduring success in global operations to include being instrumental in the establishment of SOF’s Digital PEO.
Dr. Costa has been a champion of using artificial intelligence and commercial data for operational purposes, effectively bridging the gap between private sector innovation and government as well as Fortune 500 (e.g., Starbucks, Target, Cheniere Energy) needs. My expertise extends into venture capital and private equity, where I have provided guidance on strategic investments in technologies critical for defense and security.