Operational AI

Core Topics and Key Issues

• Balancing national security and AI, with civil liberties and privacy
• Adapting legal and policy frameworks to rapidly evolving AI technologies
• Ethical implications of AI-driven surveillance and intelligence gathering
• Critically assessing the existing rules on the government's acquisition and use of information available in the public domain
• Ensuring democratic oversight of AI application and regulation in government and military operations

Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal, ethical, and practical dimensions involved in deploying AI-powered digital technologies while upholding civil liberties. Our expert instructors will guide you through relevant case studies, current best practices, and emerging trends, equipping you with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of this rapidly evolving field.

Course Schedule

The course consists of six LIVE sessions over six weeks. Course delivery offers synchronous class sessions and asynchronous learning activities, providing flexibility without losing quality engagement.

Online Sessions and Expectations

All online sessions will be hosted live on Microsoft Teams. Between sessions, students will complete readings and activities asynchronously on their own time, as their schedule permits. 

Dates, Times, and Topics 

Course begins February 21, and ends March 28, 2025
_{Weekly Meetings: Fridays, 11:00AM - 1:00PM EST}

Expert Instructors and Practicioners

Professor Michael Dick

Professor Dick has extensive practical experience in national security and a deep grasp of related legal issues. During his Marine Corps infantry officer career, Dick served in numerous challenging leadership and staff positions in support of US national security objectives. Prior to joining William & Mary Law School, Dick held positions with the U.S. Department of Justice where his areas of practice included national security, terrorism, counterintelligence, transnational organized crime, international anticorruption efforts, cyber/technology issues, international extradition and legal assistance matters. Professor Dick teaches courses on veterans benefits law, national security law, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and the law of armed conflict. Read more about Mike here.

Jonathan "Jono" Fischbach

Jonathan "Jono" Fischbach is an expert in intelligence law, intelligence oversight, and the use of novel data types and emerging digital technologies to support national security activities. Jono serves as an Associate Deputy General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), where his areas of practice include AI, commercially procured data, intelligence enterprise development, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), and intelligence oversight. Prior to joining DOD, Jono practiced as a national security lawyer at the U.S. Department of Justice, the National Counterterrorism Center, and the Defense Intelligence Agency. Jono graduated from Princeton University and Cornell Law School. He is an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown Law and an Affiliate with William & Mary Whole of Government Center of Excellence. Read more about Jono here.

Professor Iria Giuffrida

Professor Giuffrida is a legal expert in AI and emerging technologies. She is a Professor of the Practice of Law at William & Mary Law School, where she serves as the Assistant Dean for Academic & Faculty Affairs. Her research focuses on the legal implications of artificial intelligence and the internet of Things, emphasizing governance, privacy, and cybersecurity. Professor Giuffrida teaches courses on artificial intelligence, cyber and information security, and has a rich background as a commercial litigator in London. She is admitted to practice in New York, England and Wales, and Ireland, bringing a diverse international perspective to her teaching and research. Read more about Iria here.

Professor Chris Shenefiel

Chris Shenefiel is a CCI Senior Cyber Law Researcher and an Adjunct for Computer Science at William and Mary. He teaches a graduate and undergraduate course in Applied Cybersecurity for the William and Mary Computer Science Department. He guest lectures and performs Cyber Law research in the Law School. Read more about Chris here.

Daniel Shin

Daniel Shin is the Center for Legal and Court Technology's (CLCT) Cybersecurity Researcher at William & Mary Law School and the Coastal Node Commonwealth Cyber Initiative Research Scientist. With an extensive technical and technology background, Daniel focuses his research on the intersection of emerging technology and law, including as it pertains to blockchain technology, the Internet of Things, and Artificial Intelligence. One of his research interest centers around the implications of deep-fakes technology and its role in facilitating disinformation campaigns. Read more about Daniel here.

Course Fees 

Individuals affiliated with William & Mary qualify for a special university rate. Contact wgc@wm.edu to receive your code.

• If your US government agency, state agency, or military service has an approved rate for continuing education, please contact us at [[w|wgc]]. 
• Can't pay with a credit card? Please contact us at [[w|wgc]]. 

Fequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I pay through invoice instead of credit card? 

Yes, we are happy to accept payment through invoice. Contact us at [[w|wgc]] for payment instructions. 

Can I access the course on my government or military computer? 

Yes, participants should have access to the course from any computer. We encourage you to practice logging into the course prior to the first class session. If you have issues, contact us at [[w|wgc]].

What happens if I miss a session? 

You must engage in five of six sessions, in order to receive a certificate from the Whole of Government Center of Excellence after successfully completing the course. All virtual sessions will be recorded, and make-up assignments will be offered on a case-by-case basis in the event of scheduling conflicts. 

Can I get a letter of course completion or transcript to present to my agency?

Yes! You may request a transcript, and will receive a certificate from the Whole of Government Center of Excellence after successfully completing the course. Please contact us at [[w|wgc]] with additional questions.

Additional questions?

Please contact us at [[w|wgc]].