Dr. Christopher Kirchhoff, a renowned figure in emerging technologies and national security, has led a transformative career spanning government, defense, and technology sectors. Christopher founded the Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit X (DIUx), setting up the Department of Defense's inaugural Silicon Valley office. Through his visionary leadership, DIUx created a new acquisition pathway for tech startups, driving over $70 billion in defense technology procurements and pioneering the U.S. military's adoption of breakthroughs like flying cars and microsatellites.
Christopher played a pivotal role as the Director for Strategic Planning at the National Security Council, during the Obama administration, spearheading crucial initiatives that tackled global crises, including the U.S. response to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Additionally, he served as Senior Civilian Aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where he managed strategic projects on future military technologies, crisis response, and international security. His exceptional contributions earned him the Secretary of Defense Medal for Outstanding Service and the Civilian Service Medal for Hazardous Duty in Iraq.
Beyond his government service, Christopher has excelled in the private sector. He played a senior role in scaling the philanthropic endeavours of Google CEO Eric Schmidt, expanding the organization to $1 billion in initiatives. Recently, through projects at Anthropic, a leading AI research firm, he has worked on advancing AI innovation and safety. His efforts to connect technology and national security have established him as a trusted advisor on the future of warfare and digital transformation.
An accomplished author and strategic thinker, Christopher has penned landmark reports, including Hard Lessons: The Iraq Reconstruction Experience and co-authoring ‘Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War’ with Raj Shah. Dr. Christopher Kirchoff is an inspiring speaker whose career embodies innovation, resilience, and a relentless commitment to addressing the challenges of the digital age.
Books
Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War
How to hire Dr. Christopher Kirchhoff
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Dr. Christopher Kirchhoff for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
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Dr. Christopher Kirchhoff's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Emerging Technology and National Security
- Innovation in Defence and Government
- The Future of War and Technological Systems
- 2023 - Published 'Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War'
- 2021 - Co-authored the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence Report
- 2015 - Founded the Pentagon’s Defense Innovation Unit X
- 2014 - Directed the Obama administration's Ebola response report
- 2009 - Appointed Strategic Planning Director at the National Security Council
