Leadership of Human-Machine Teams in Military Environments: An Exploratory Framework

Leadership of Human-Machine Teams in Military Environments: An Exploratory Framework

Anna Pierre | 2022

Abstract

This is an exploratory study in response to two calls (Do et al., 2017; L. Larson & DeChurch, 2020) for more study on how artificial intelligence (AI) could influence leadership skills and behaviors in the future. This study, one of the first of its kind, is specifically focused on how the future use of human-machine teaming by the U.S. Department of Defense could change required military leadership skills. While the use of AI is at the beginning stages of ubiquity in organizations, there is still little understanding of how this technology could influence leadership behaviors and required skills. A Delphi study was utilized to garner expert opinion on the topic. It was discovered that the use of human-centric skills, such as creativity, empathy, and critical thinking, will be vital in the future. Additionally, it was found that there is still uncertainty on if there will be differences in leadership for civilian or military leaders of human-machine teams or how leadership development training will need to change to meet future requirements.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, military leadership, information age, human-machine teaming, shared leadership, machine learning, U.S. Department of Defense, digital age, leadership skills, Delphi study, algorithmic leadership