(NewsUSA) - The second AI+ Expo took place in Washington, D.C., from June 2-4, 2025, and served as a stark reminder of the lightning pace of AI development, according to Ylli Bajraktari, president of the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP).

The event was sponsored by SCSP, a nonprofit and nonpartisan initiative with a goal of making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term competitiveness in artificial intelligence (AI). More than 15,000 attendees represented a vital cross-section of innovators, policy-makers, and leaders coming together to discuss and brainstorm the challenges of maintaining America's national security and economic vitality with help from cutting-edge AI technology.

Some key features of the AI+ Expo included:

-Challenging Competitions. The AI+ Expo's Drone Arena hosted the first U.S. military drone competition held in Washington, including not only military teams, but also high school and college students. Attendees looking to bend their brains signed up for an on-site hackathon that challenged the boundaries of AI problem-solving.

-Meeting and Mingling. The AI+ Careers Stage featured professional discussions about AI-related jobs. The accompanying Talent Marketplace allowed professionals in the public and private sectors to network one-on-one about the future of AI-related jobs and the impact of AI on the workforce and workplace. Job-seekers looking to pursue new careers in AI found opportunities to connect with potential employers.

-Expert Insights. Eight stages, special event rooms, and other venues provided the forums for experts to share vital insights about the future of technology and the impact on American security and success over the three-day conference.

-Books and Demos. The Expo exhibition floor was a celebration of American ingenuity, with more than 160 participants sharing the latest in AI technology. In addition, a dedicated bookstore space hosted book talks, signings, discussions, and Q&As.

Concurrently with the AI+Expo, SCSP hosted The Exchange: Advancing the Legacy of Innovation and National Security. Panelists discussed ways to advance collaboration in AI and other technology across platforms to improve national security. The SCSP Exchanges were inspired by Dr. Ash Carter, the 25th Secretary of Defense, whose pioneering work initiated a transformational change across the U.S. government.

To watch the AI+Expo, visit SCSP's YouTube and to learn more about SCSP, visit scsp.ai.