Zachary Sorenson – Innovate AI 2026
Session 3: AI in National Security
Lt. Zachary Sorenson
Sorenson was raised in Sioux Falls and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 2008. He went to ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ from 2008 to 2012 where he earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics as well as a minor in computer science. Afterwards, he went to Oklahoma State University from 2012 to 2014 where he earned his Master of Science in mathematics. In 2015, he joined the U.S. Navy through the nuclear propulsion officer candidate program and commissioned before going through Officer Development School in 2016. Following ODS, he reported to Naval Nuclear Power Training Command to serve as a nuclear power school instructor from 2016-2020. He spent time in the enlisted mathematics division and Officer Chemistry, Materials and Radiological Fundamentals division. In 2020, he was selected for lateral transfer to become an intelligence officer. After completing the Naval Intelligence Officer Basic Course, he reported to Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW 17) in 2021 to serve as the staff targeting officer for the air wing. During his time with CVW 17, he performed a deployment aboard USS Nimitz as part of Carrier Strike Group 11 (CSG 11) in the INDOPACOM AOR. Sorenson reported to USSTRATCOM in December 2024 and is currently the team chief for the strategic targets divisions automation team.