Federal 100: Jim Kren
![](https://cdn.nextgov.com/media/img/cd/2021/12/11/Kren/860x394.png?1639276953)
![](/media/ps360/GIG/FCWNow/People/Fed100/2020/Kren.png)
Name:
Jim Kren
Title:
Director of Systems Development, Concepts, Development and Management Office
Organization:
Department of the Air Force
Blazing trails for emerging tech. Throughout 2019, Kren tirelessly pushed federal leaders to embrace innovation. As deputy director of the Defense Security Service for the first half of the year, he spearheaded a series of education events that kick-started the implementation of emerging technologies to support stronger vetting of corporations applying for facility clearances. Now as director of systems development at the Air Force, Kren works across political lines to prevent duplicative artificial intelligence projects, while advising Air Force and Defense Department leaders on emerging technology policy. He practices what he preaches by creating an open and collaborative culture within his leadership team.