The World of Professional Wargaming - SDHistCon Live Panel Discussion
100Learn about the world of professional wargaming, as several professional wargame designers—working for the DoD, State Department, and others—will discuss their work, their professional wargames and how they approach designing games for education and analysis. We'll be discussing topic and fielding questions from the audience along the way.
This discussion was held at SDHistCon's Winter Quarters Virtual Convention in February, 2025.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the panelists during this discussion are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or endorsements of their respective organizations or employers. The information shared is for general discussion purposes only and should not be construed as official advice or statements on behalf of any institution.
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Panel Members
Anette Prieto - Technical Analyst – RAND
Annette Prieto is a technical analyst at RAND, with a specialization in emerging technologies and weapons of mass destruction. She has recently been more involved in wargaming, where she has played a pivotal role in designing, developing, and leading games for the U.S. Coast Guard, Army, and Marine Corps. These games have spanned a wide range of topics to provide valuable insights into complex policy and security-related challenges. Annette's current research also addresses threats posed by biological weapons, unmanned systems, as well as the challenges of operating in CBRN environment.
Andrew Olson - Research Analyst - CNA
Andrew Olson is a research analyst on the wargaming team at CNA and adjunct professor at Georgetown University. Olson’s current focus at CNA is on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) wargaming and emerging AI integration. His writing on wargaming has been featured by the Army Mad Scientist Program, the Army War College, and at wargaming conferences. Olson lectures at Georgetown University, including teaching “Wargame Design and Practice” in the Masters of Foreign Service Program and supports educational wargaming events around the D.C. area. He holds a M.Sc. in Foreign Service from Georgetown University with a focus on Science and Technology.
Nick Wernert - Gaming and Planning Specialist - Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO)
Nick Wernert is a Gaming and Planning Specialist at the State Department's Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO). Prior to working at State, he worked with the Marine Corps, doing wargaming for Professional Military Education (PME), as well as holding various research positions with foreign policy think tanks. Nick holds undergraduate degrees from Indiana University in Near Eastern Languages & Cultures and International Studies, as well as a graduate degree from Georgetown University in Arab Studies. Outside of playing games, Nick is a die-hard fan of the Indiana Pacers and Real Sociedad de Fútbol.