Skip to main content
Apply • Visit • Give
News and Events

NMSU’s Physical Science Lab launches artificial intelligence leadership program

  • 11 February 2025
NMSUs-2020-OnlineTools_COVID_3-300x194.jpg
The Physical Science Laboratory at New Mexico State University concluded the newly launched the Defense Leadership Certificate Program, “Improving Developmental Testing with Artificial Intelligence,” with “Shark Tank” style presentations Jan. 31. Students from six Army Test Centers attended the course. (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman)
  •  

The Physical Science Laboratory at New Mexico State University launched the Defense Leadership Certificate Program, “Improving Developmental Testing with Artificial Intelligence,” an initiative designed to bolster the U.S. Department of Defense’s AI readiness and workforce capabilities.

This immersive program, which ran from Jan. 6-31, combines online learning with in-person training at NMSU’s advanced facilities. It aims to enhance participants’ understanding of AI and its application in defense operations, addressing critical skill gaps in the DOD’s testing and evaluation workforce.

“Through programs like the Defense Leadership Certificate, we’re preparing our defense civilian workforce to tackle complex challenges and adapt to technological advances,” said Marcella Shelby, who oversees PSL Strategic Initiatives, including PSL’s defense workforce pipeline programs. “Our goal is to ensure that our participants leave with the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to lead in an AI-driven world.”

PSL hosted 24 participants Jan. 27-31 representing six key U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command centers across the nation, including Electronic Proving Ground and Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona; Dugway Proving Ground in Utah; Aberdeen Test Center in Maryland; Redstone Test Center in Alabama; and White Sands Test Center in New Mexico.

“U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command and New Mexico State University are strategic partners who are pushing beyond the technological edge to deliver transformational capabilities for Army 2030 and Army 2040,” said Brig. Gen. George Turner, the commanding general of White Sands Missile Range. “More specific, the Physical Science Laboratory is leveraging the Defense Leadership Certificate Program to develop artificial intelligence warriors to meet today’s and tomorrow’s global security challenges.”

The Defense Leadership Certificate Program is a key initiative within NMSU’s PSL Student Programs portfolio, offering tailored training for the defense civilian workforce. In addition to the “Improving Developmental Testing with AI” course, the program includes three other courses aimed at enhancing leadership and communication skills, “Creating Trust and High-Performance Teams,” “Effective Communication” and “Mentorship.”

In 2025, two additional courses will be introduced to expand the program’s offerings “AI for Defense Applications” and “Technical Writing.”

“We are honored to collaborate with NMSU’s Physical Science Laboratory to develop and lead the curriculum for the Defense Leadership Certificate Program,” said retired Army Col. Ross Davidson, CEO of Chieftain Elite LLC. “Our team is dedicated to equipping the defense workforce with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills in AI, leadership and communication to ensure they are prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Digital transformation and our nation’s continuing leadership in artificial intelligence will remain a decisive national security imperative for the foreseeable future.”

The Defense Leadership Certificate Program is a pivotal element of NMSU’s PSL Student Program’s Defense Workforce Pipeline initiative, fostering collaboration between academia and government to meet the DOD’s evolving demands. This initiative ensures the workforce is prepared to integrate advanced AI solutions, improving processes, enhancing decision-making and advancing mission success.

The Defense Leadership Certificate Program is part of the broader PSL Student Programs portfolio. Led by Josh Moon, PSL’s student programs include initiatives such as the Classified Ready Employee Workforce Program, which prepares college students for careers in classified environments, and STEM Mavericks AI Camp, which introduces high school students to AI through hands-on activities and mentorship.

These programs demonstrate PSL’s commitment to nurturing talent at every stage of the educational and professional journey, empowering individuals to excel in national security and STEM fields.

For more information about PSL’s Student Programs and the Defense Leadership Certificate Program, please visit PSL’s Student Programs or contact Moon at jmoon@psl.nmsu.edu or 575-646-9202.