After spearheading generative AI integration and data transformation, Chandra Donelson exits the United States Space Force amid growing focus on warfighter decision advantage
WASHINGTON | Chandra Donelson, the United States Space Force’s chief data and artificial intelligence officer (CDAO), has announced her departure after a pivotal tenure marked by rapid modernization and expanded adoption of AI-driven capabilities.
Donelson, who assumed the role in 2023, played a central role in shaping the digital backbone of the Pentagon’s newest military branch. In a public statement, she emphasized her continued commitment to national security and the warfighter, noting that her work over the past two years has focused on enhancing decision advantage through data integration, AI deployment, and improved space domain awareness.
“Together, we have modernized legacy systems, advanced AI-enabled capabilities, and enhanced space domain awareness,” Donelson said, underscoring the operational importance of data in an increasingly contested space environment.

