Resource person: Pam Petrie

Location: Nanoose Place Community Centre | 2925 Northwest Bay Road, Nanoose Bay, BC, V9P 9E6

Description:

Artificial intelligence can pose many national security risks from people or governments with malicious intent. For example, they could use this technology to spread disinformation, build autonomous weapons, or compromise critical infrastructure. One national security concern we’ve already faced is automated cyber attacks (at speeds beyond human capability). Also, AI can be used to design malware used in scams, phishing campaigns, and even used to comprise power grids. The use of misinformation and psychological warfare are age-old weapons used in wartime, but AI can add a more refined and complex level of public opinion manipulation to destabilize societies. Data security is yet another worry. The Canadian government mitigates these risks through regulation, international standards, and investing in AI research.

Presenter: John Pyrik began his 27-year career in government as an intelligence officer for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) where he conducted investigations into terrorism and economic espionage. He then worked as an investigator for the BC Securities Commission on cases of market fraud, broker misconduct, and insider trading. When Canada established FINTRAC, its new anti-money laundering agency, he joined as a senior analyst and team leader. Mid-career he became interested in improving the trade craft of analysis, so he became a scholar-in-residence at Carleton University. The following year, the Privy Council Office (PCO) chose him to create and manage a new government-wide Intelligence Analyst Learning Program. He later became the first ever “analytic methodologist” at CSIS and their first chief of analytic training. 

John’s lecture is the result of collaboration between Elder College and the Vancouver Island Branch of the Canadian International Council (CIC). John often lectures on topics related to national security and geopolitics at CIC. He has led several “politics in the pub” discussions  involving topics ranging from critical minerals to the Canadian government’s intelligence priorities. 

The mission of the CIC is to promote an understanding of international affairs and Canada’s role in a changing world by providing Canadians with a non-partisan, nationwide forum for informed discussion, analysis and debate. See theCIC.org for more information.

Available spots: 123 out of 150

Price: $10.00 Taxes included

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