Col. Paul Brenner, AETC senior reserve advisor to the chief information officer

Col. Paul Brenner is the senior reserve advisor to the chief information officer at Air Education and Training Command, and a professor and research scientist at the University of Notre Dame focused on artificial intelligence and data analytics. "Digital upskilling isn't just for cybersecurity experts; it's a necessity for every Airman," Brenner says, emphasizing that digital literacy forms the backbone of modern military operations. He explains that understanding data, properly managing it, and leveraging digital tools are critical skills across all career fields, not just technical roles. "From logistics to mission planning, everyone must be equipped to handle data correctly and securely to ensure we remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape." Brenner's work on AETC’s Data Literacy Foundations course aims to instill these foundational skills, empowering Airmen to make informed decisions and respond quickly in a data-driven environment. (Courtesy photo)