INCOSE Liberty Chapter - June IN-PERSON Event

Please join us for networking and a presentation.

Topic:  Systems Engineering: An Enabler for Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in highly specialized, high-performance systems that rely on domain-specific heuristics and data analytics. However, the iterative, exploratory approach historically used to construct AI systems—characterized by prototype refinement and an evolution of capabilities without rigid final specifications—stands in stark contrast to traditional systems engineering (SE) formalisms.

This presentation explores the critical intersection of these two fields, detailing why rigorous systems engineering principles, processes, and tools are essential to the successful design, implementation, and verification of complex AI applications (i.e., SE4AI). Conversely, it addresses how established AI techniques can act as powerful enablers for the SE discipline itself (AI4SE). Attendees will gain insights into how future engineering lifecycle methodologies, professional skills, and tools must evolve to succeed in an AI-driven world.

Presentation By: Rick Hefner, PhD

Rick Hefner, PhD, serves as the Senior Director for the Caltech Center for Technology and Management Education (http://ctme.caltech.edu), where he designs training programs for technology-driven individuals and organizations. He has over 45 years of experience in industry, government, and academic positions, and has worked with over 40 companies in the aerospace, communications, electronics, and health sciences industries. Dr. Hefner is credited with over 200 publications and presentations, and specializes in systems engineering, artificial intelligence, and technology adoption.