Navigating the Advent of Human-Machine Teaming

The objective of this panel was to discuss issues related to human-machine (or human-agent) teaming (HMT). Panelists were selected to represent diverse interests and backgrounds (i.e., defense, industry, and academia). Chris Brill provided opening remarks to frame the discussion and introduce the panelists. He then raised several questions related to HMT, such as what is HMT, what level of autonomy is required for HMT, and how do we develop trust in autonomous teammates that learn, change, and potentially, individuate. Missy Cummings built on the issue of learning systems, addressing challenges of certifying systems that, as a function of learning, may cease to be known quantities. Bill Evans spoke to the need for transparency in human-agent teaming. Joseph Lyons addressed social factors in HMT. Peter Hancock detailed his concerns about whether forays into HMT are even advisable, particularly as doing so may lead to dehumanization, or worse, volitional demotion of humans from our current status as apex lifeforms on Earth. Lastly, Kevin Oden expanded the discussion of trust in autonomous systems, while also providing thoughts on how to best leverage human capabilities in the context of HMT. The panel then turned to facilitated discussion with panelists and audience members, constituting the majority of the session time. The session concluded with panelists summarizing their thoughts on how HF/E professionals can or should play a role in the advent of HMT.