Annual Intellectual Theme
The goal of the annual intellectual theme is to bring the West Point community together in a shared intellectual experience by encouraging interdisciplinary discourse and research focused on a common subject.
Annual Intellectual Theme
The goal of the annual intellectual theme is to bring the West Point community together in a shared intellectual experience by encouraging interdisciplinary discourse and research focused on a common subject.
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Academic Year 2024-25 Theme
The Human and the Machine: Leadership on the Emerging Battlefield
The academic year 2024-25 is designed to delve into the intricate relationship between human agency and technological innovation in contemporary warfare. The theme will explore how leaders may effectively navigate the complexities of modern battlefields, where technological disruptions and advancements in autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and cyber technologies are reshaping conflict dynamics.
Throughout the year, the Dean will host fireside chats, podcasts, and other events that examine this topic through the lenses of different academic disciplines. This year’s theme aligns education with the future battlefield, preparing cadets for emerging challenges to ensure that our military is the most lethal and effective in the world.
Highlights

Podcast
Inside West Point: Ideas that Impact
Brigadier General Shane Reeves, Dean of USMA, takes you behind the scenes to explore applied research and cross-disciplinary work by USMA scholars. Check out these episodes:
- COL Beskow - Data Science
- COL Koch - Space and Warfare
- COL Mayer - Leadership & AI
- Prof. Sheetz - STEM Outreach

Fireside Chats
Explore different topics with well-known individuals and military leaders:
- Mr. Elon Musk – Theme Kickoff
- LTG (Ret.) H.R. McMaster – Warrior Ethos
- GEN (Ret.) Tony Thomas – Leadership on the Emerging Battlefield

Projects Day Research Symposium