NSIE
National Security Innovation in Education
June 2025 | Stanford University
The U.S. is Falling Behind.
China has embedded defense innovation education into its high school curriculum, systematically preparing its next generation to integrate technology and drive military innovation. Meanwhile, the U.S. struggles to integrate national security innovation frameworks into professional military and civilian university programs, leaving us unprepared to adopt and deploy emerging technologies at speed.
We’re losing our strategic edge—not because of a lack of technology or talent, but because we haven’t built the system to train leaders who can harness both.
NSIE EXPLAINED
NSIE: To Secure our Future
NSIE is not another conference. This invite-only, high-trust working summit unites decision-makers from defense, academia, and industry to design a modern national security education system.
At NSIE 2025, our mission is to:
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Define a scalable, repeatable model for embedding defense innovation education into professional military education (PME) and university programs.
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Move beyond theory—ensuring that innovation education translates directly into real-world execution.
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Establish a national framework that connects warfighters and technologists to drive rapid innovation.
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Produce actionable outcomes so leaders leave with a clear plan for implementing change.
If China is already training its next generation of defense innovators, the U.S. cannot afford to wait.
WHO'S IN THE ROOM
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NSIE 2025 is designed for leaders who understand that waiting is not an option. This by-invitation-only summit brings together:
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University National Security Center Leaders and Faculty
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Deans, Commandants, and PME Leaders
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Senior Military Officers and Defense Innovation Leaders
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Educators driving national security innovation
WHY THIS MATTERS NOW
By the conclusion of NSIE 2025, our collective efforts will deliver:
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A defined academic blueprint for scaling national security innovation education.
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A coalition of universities and PME institutions committed to integrating problem-driven innovation.
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A clear pathway to launching an NSIE degree program backed by institutional commitment.
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The foundational groundwork for a sustainable, long-term initiative ensuring that the summit's outcomes lead to actionable change.
We’re losing our strategic edge—not due to a lack of talent or technology, but because we haven’t built a system that translates innovation into action.
EVENT DETAILS
When:
June 2025
Where:
Stanford University
NSIE 2025 will focus on two critical questions:
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How can we build a disruptive national security education system that produces leaders capable of driving innovation at the speed of modern threats?
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What is the scalable, repeatable model for embedding problem-driven learning and entrepreneurial execution into PME and university programs?
CALL TO ACTION
NSIE is not a passive academic gathering, nor is it a typical networking session. It is a high-stakes, outcomes-driven convening designed to produce real change.
Key Points:
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No panels, no keynote speeches, and no performative conversations.
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Through facilitated working sessions and direct collaboration, participants will leave with clear, actionable next steps.
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A strategic report capturing key insights and recommendations will be published post-event, ensuring discussions convert into tangible improvements in national security education.
LOGISTICS
Lodging and Travel:
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Confirmed attendees will receive detailed information on accommodations and meals. A dedicated hotel block will be reserved.
Attendance Costs:
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NSIE is free, sponsored by the Common Mission Project.
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Participants are responsible for their own flights, lodging, and transportation.
Confidentiality:
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All discussions will occur under Chatham House Rules, ensuring open and candid collaboration.
Preparation:
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Participants should prepare for an immersive working session.
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A detailed agenda and Read-Ahead materials will be provided in advance.