Information Professionals Association
TypeNon-profit
IndustryInformation Operations, Cyberwarfare
Founded2017[1]
HeadquartersHilton Head, SC[1]
Area served
Worldwide
Websitewww.information-professionals.org

The Information Professionals Association is an international nonprofit professional organization specializing in the application of soft and hard science, advanced analytics, and innovative technologies to advance security, prosperity, shared values, and international order through the free flow of ideas and information.

History

The Information Professionals Association was founded in 2017 by Austin Branch, known as the U.S. Army's first Information Operations officer, and another unknown cofounder.[2] Testimony presented to the U.S. Senate House Armed Services Committee, Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, by Rand Waltzman on April 27, 2017, is considered a catalyst for the IPA's founding:

"What is needed is a Center for Cognitive Security to... bring together experts working in areas such as cognitive science, computer science, engineering, social science, security, marketing, political campaigning, public policy, and psychology... for managing the full spectrum of information environment security issues. The center should be nonprofit and housed in a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization that has international credibility and close ties with government, industry, academia, think tanks, and public interest groups internationally."[3]

The Cognitive Crucible

The Cognitive Crucible is a weekly podcast sponsored by the IPA that hosts discussions with information operators, national security thought leaders, scholars, and politicians cover a wide variety of topics related to cognitive security and the information problem.[4]

Order of Hermes

The Order of Hermes is an honorary award from the IPA, intended to recognize individuals for exceptional service and contributions in the field of cognitive security.[5] It can be awarded to individuals from military, government, civilian, or the private sector and has three levels:[5]

  • Gold: For recognition of the elite few whose long-term dedication to the field of cognitive security stand above their colleagues and peers.[5]
  • Silver: For recognition of those who have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and moral character, outstanding competence, and contributed to the cognitive security profession[5]
  • Rising Star: For recognition of the next generation of thought and operational leaders in the cognitive security field.[5]

Though few orders, of any level, have been awarded, the preponderance of awardees come from the U.S. Army Information Operations community.

See also

References

  1. 1 2 "About us". LinkedIn. Information Professionals Association. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
  2. ↑ "Austin Branch". Information Professionals Association. Information Professionals Association. Retrieved 24 November 2023.
  3. ↑ Waltzman, Rand. "The Weaponization of Information: The Need for Cognitive Security". Rand.org. Rand Corporation. Retrieved 25 November 2023.
  4. ↑ "The Cognitive Crucible". Information Professionals Association. Information Professionals Association.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 "Order of Hermes". Information Professionals Association. Information Professionals Association. Retrieved 24 November 2023.
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