On 4 September 2025, the Defence Academy’s Learning Capability and Development group convened a workshop at Mansion House, hosted by the Lady Mayoress of the City of London, Florence King.
The one-day workshop, organised in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Educators and the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs, brought together 18 leading experts from defence, business, and education to explore the evolving impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across their respective areas. Participants examined key themes including creativity, proficiency, fairness, and safety in the application of AI.
Attendees represented a broad spectrum of expertise. The Defence AI Centre, led by Commodore Rachel Singleton MBE RN, and specialists from the Defence Academy provided perspectives from the defence sector. The City Livery Companies contributed academics from the Henley and London Business Schools, digital education and quality assurance experts from higher education, as well as innovators and cyber specialists from industry and the Reserves. The depth and quality of the discussions reflected a strong collective interest in advancing this important work.
The agenda featured demonstrations of innovative drone training solutions and a series of breakout sessions focused on practical aspects of AI integration. The workshop culminated in the agreement of three foundational principles to guide the adoption of AI in professional military education:
- upholding critical thinking: maintaining a strong commitment to critical thinking as a cornerstone for effective AI use
- encouraging experimentation: fostering a culture of practical experimentation and ongoing engagement with AI technologies
- empowering innovation: creating an environment that empowers current AI users to drive further innovation
In addition to four hours of in-depth discussion, participants enjoyed opportunities to strengthen professional relationships and share ideas over lunch in the historic surroundings of Mansion House. The event was widely regarded as a valuable forum for collaboration and the exchange of innovative thinking.
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