In September 2022, Nate Fick was confirmed by the Senate as America’s cyber ambassador, signaling a recognition of the growing importance of tech diplomacy. Fick wasted no time in tasking his team with developing a modern training program to equip diplomats with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of cyber and digital policy.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s emphasis on a tech-savvy diplomatic corps aligned perfectly with Fick’s vision. He knew that in order to advance American interests in the digital age, diplomats needed to be well-versed in tech issues and adept at advocating for US tech priorities on the global stage.
With clear goals in mind, Fick and his team set out to create a curriculum that would not only educate diplomats on the stakes involved in tech competition but also empower them to represent the US tech agenda effectively in their host countries.
The training program aimed to decentralize tech expertise within the State Department, ensuring that diplomats stationed around the world had the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions independently. This shift was crucial in a time when rapid responses to tech challenges were necessary.
Foreign Service officers, as America’s frontline representatives abroad, play a pivotal role in shaping US foreign policy. Equipped with a deep understanding of tech issues, they can engage with local officials, gather critical information, and advocate for American interests effectively.
To achieve these goals, Fick’s team designed the Cyberspace and Digital Policy Tradecraft course at the Foreign Service Institute. This intensive program, which has trained 180 diplomats to date, provides hands-on training and in-depth knowledge of key tech issues.
The course, which includes pre-work activities like experimenting with generative AI, ensures that diplomats are well-prepared to engage in discussions on cyber and digital policy from day one. By empowering diplomats with the necessary skills and knowledge, Fick’s team is paving the way for a more agile and effective tech diplomacy strategy.
Inside the Classroom
Since its inception, the Cyberspace and Digital Policy Tradecraft course has been conducted multiple times, catering to diplomats from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the US. Each session equips diplomats with the tools they need to navigate the intricate world of tech diplomacy and contribute to the advancement of American interests on the global stage.