Dr. Lisa Costa is a formidable leader in the intersection of technology and defense, 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, she has driven 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
infrastructures, energy programs, and cyber security. Her efforts have significantly shaped the strategic use of space for defense, integrating commercial technologies and systems into the fabric of national security.
Earlier in her career, Dr. Costa 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, she helped establish SOF as a technological leader in the intelligence and
international community. Her strategic oversight and management of SOF’s substantial IT
infrastructure, as the J6 and Chief Information Officer, set a foundation for SOCOM’s
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 commercial data for intelligence and operational
purposes, effectively bridging the gap between private sector innovation and
governmental security needs. Her expertise extends into venture capital and private
equity, where she has provided guidance on strategic investments in technologies critical
for defense and security.
In her role on Defense Science Boards, she has influenced major policy decisions in national
security such as the role of special operations in the Global War on Terror, shaped the
foundation of modern homeland defense, and highlighted the role of commercial data and
algorithms for nation state competition. She has consulted to Fortune 500 (e.g., Target,
Cheniere, Starbucks, Walmart) on cyber security, enterprise risk management, and supply
chain. She has advised incoming Presidential administrations on emerging challenges to
national security. With her extensive background and strategic insights into the integration
of technology with irregular warfare, Dr. Costa is exceptionally positioned to contribute to organizations like GSOF.