(US and Canada) Accenture Federal Services (AFS) has announced the appointment of Garrett Berntsen as its new Defense & Intelligence Data and AI Lead. With a distinguished background in public service and expertise in artificial intelligence, Berntsen brings extensive experience in shaping national AI policy and delivering digital transformation initiatives across key federal agencies.

Berntsen most recently served as Deputy Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer for Scaled Capabilities at the Department of Defense’s Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO). Prior to that, he held leadership roles at the U.S. Department of State, including Deputy Chief Data and AI Officer and Director for Technology and National Security on the National Security Council. His work focused on applying evidence-based analysis and emerging technologies to enhance diplomatic and national security outcomes.

Berntsen also brings prior consulting experience from his time at Deloitte, where he supported digital modernization efforts at the Departments of State, Transportation, and Defense.

“These past few years have been truly meaningful for me personally and professionally. Participating in the government’s journey around AI—from a nascent concept to a strategic priority—has been a remarkable experience. I’m excited to continue this work at Accenture Federal Services, where I’ll be applying my experience in AI for national security to help the government achieve its AI modernization goals,” Berntsen shared in a LinkedIn announcement.