State Department’s Manny Medrano talks AI-powered decision support

Manny Medrano, Director of Cyber Monitoring and Operations at the State Department, discussed the rapid evolution of AI in government services, particularly in cybersecurity. He highlighted AI’s role in enhancing defensive capabilities, analyzing large datasets and augmenting analysts’ focus on mission-critical tasks. Medrano emphasized the need for a cultural shift in understanding AI as an assistant rather than a replacement. He also envisions future SOC operations with AI assistants providing rapid, risk-based decision support to analysts and system owners. Challenges include cultural adaptation and ensuring AI protects the systems it operates on.