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NORTH CAROLINA CHAPTER - 03/25/2024

In February, the recruiting fair affiliated with TechNet Fort Liberty, connects employers and active duty, reservist, veteran, coast guard and military spouse job seekers. In February, the TechNet Fort Liberty Symposium and Exposition, along with its recruiting fair, concluded with resounding success, marking a pivotal moment in the convergence of technology, innovation and talent acquisition.Hosted at the Fort Liberty Iron Mike Convention Center, the symposium witnessed an unprecedented gathering of industry leaders, government officials and technology enthusiasts. With a comprehensive agenda featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions and an interactive expo, the event provided invaluable insights into the latest advancements in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.The recruiting fair, held in conjunction with the symposium, served as a prime platform for employers and active duty, reservist, veteran, coast guard and military spouse job seekers to connect. More than 40 leading technology companies participated, offering diverse career opportunities spanning cybersecurity, software development and network engineering. A ... READ MORE

LEXINGTON-CONCORD CHAPTER - 03/17/2024

The proud winners pose for a photo with the chapter's Emerging Leaders at the March event. The chapter's Emerging Leaders took charge of the chapter's annual MATHCOUNTS scholarship event, celebrating the achievements of the top four students at the MATHCOUNTS state competition held at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in March. MATHCOUNTS stands as one of the nation's most impactful education collaborations, engaging volunteers, educators, industry sponsors and students alike.This spirited competition fosters middle school math proficiency through engaging coaching and lively "bee style" mathematics contests. Across Massachusetts this year, an impressive 794 students from 121 schools vied in seven chapter competitions, leading to 127 students from 41 schools advancing to the state competition.The Emerging Leaders, namely Alex Swope, Stephanie Shangraw and Lynn Demirbas, played pivotal roles as they proctored the competitions, graded exams and awarded $250 from the AFCEA Education Foundation to each of the four finalists. These finalists, now poised to represent Massa ... READ MORE

BELVOIR CHAPTER - 03/01/2024

Blast off! The chapter hosts its annual Code-a-Thon event in March. In March, in conjunction with several Central Virginia area AFCEA chapters, the chapter hosted its annual Code-a-Thon event for the third year in a row! The virtual Code-a-Thon blasted off to nine Virginia-based elementary schools. The fictional Virginia AFCEA Space Alliance, or VASA, once again traveled to Planet X for a thrilling adventure called "Grow the Planet." The goal of this event was to encourage the development of coding, promote interest in science, technology, engineering and math, and raise cyber awareness for the participating elementary schools. This is the only virtual code-a-thon event that connects public schools, Department of Defense Education Activity grant schools and Department of Defense schools in the region. The volunteers supporting the event also were rewarded as they experienced the thrill of making a difference in the young lives of the participants. As some of the teachers have noted, "It is amazing to watch students' excitement around coding and STEA ... READ MORE

GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/29/2024

Capt. Thomas Merkle, USN (l), chapter president, poses with Lisa McKee, founding partner, American Security and Privacy, Dakota State University, Omaha, Nebraska. McKee was the speaker for the February luncheon and received a Greater Omaha Chapter coin for addressing the chapter. In February, Lisa McKee, founding partner, American Security, Dakota State University, Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing the importance of cloud security. McKee pointed out a number of cloud threats, and companies need to do a better job of protecting themselves and their employees. She relayed that 39% of businesses had experienced a cloud breach in their cloud environment in 2023. She cited the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report of 2023, which indicates the human element is involved in every three out of four incidents. McKee emphasized that cyber threats don't change. With the continued use of the cloud, threats only become greater. She touched on the OSINT Framework, which gathers free tools and makes them readily available. She also talked about compliance: it's one of the hardest jobs out there based on the breadth of knowledge necessary for the position. McKee discussed Core Privacy Rights, where companies need the customer's consent to collect an ... READ MORE

GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/29/2024

Scientists, teacher and student participants at the second Dinner with a Scientist event held at Omaha North High School assemble in February.  Directly after dinner, there were several demonstrations conducted to inspire students.  There were students and teachers from 12 area schools. In February, Pedro Ramirez, executive technical adviser, Nuclear Command, Control and Communications (NC3) Enterprise Center, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, was the guest speaker for the second Dinner with a Scientist event held at Omaha North High School. Ramirez covered his humble beginnings-how he first became interested in STEM as a child while investigating a computer he used for school. From there he talked about joining the Marine Corps, his interest in radios and computers, and finally coming to HMX-1 (Marine Helicopter Squadron One), the president's helicopter squadron. It was at HMX-1 where he became acquainted with the importance of security and just how serious the threats were to the mission; he began looking into how to protect the computer systems from these threats. At that time, Ramirez started his formal university education in computer science, specializing in what became known as cybersecurity. He began looking into not just how to mitigate threats but also how ... READ MORE

ALAMO CHAPTER - 02/28/2024

In February, the chapter's Tech-Xchange group gathers for a photo. In February, the chapter held a Tech-Xchange at B-Technologies headquarters in Austin, Texas. The happy hour event allowed members and nonmembers to network and exchange ideas about cyber, intel and information technology in and around the federal space.

BELVOIR CHAPTER - 02/28/2024

Chapter President Jim Evans (r) and guest speaker Aric Sherwood pause for a photo at the February luncheon. In February, the chapter hosted Aric Sherwood, director, Acquisition Innovation Directorate, Program Executive Office Enterprise Information Systems (PEO-EIS). The hour and a half-long presentation was an informative session where industry and other government leaders learned about the Army's agile journey, contracting, testing, SBIRs, maintaining acquisition rigor and industry collaboration. The event also hosted several other government leaders, like Matt Gohil, chief information officer at PEO Soldier, who quoted that Sherwood's presentation had "insights on how the Army continues to drive agile across the acquisition community" and that he was "looking forward to further engagements with PEO-EIS." This was a popular event and the chapter appreciates the continued partnership with PEO-EIS.

ALAMO CHAPTER - 02/26/2024

Brian Cook, 16th Air Force technical director (l), and Chris Kinne, chapter president, present at the chapter's February luncheon. Brian J. Cook, technical director, 16th Air Force, delivered an insightful address at the recent February monthly luncheon event. Cook advises the commander and executive director regarding appropriate levels of effort among the various program areas of the organization, and on the development, acquisition and implementation of technology, procedures and operations necessary to execute the various 16th Air Force missions. As a distinguished speaker, Cook shed light on key developments and challenges while providing valuable insights into the broader landscape of 16th Air Force. He spoke about the Phoenix Initiative, a project that drives modernization and mission resiliency by capturing innovative ideas and new technologies through deliberate engagement with industry, academia and government research and development organizations.The Phoenix Initiative also further connects subject matter experts at the tactical edge to senior leadership within the 16th Air Force. Cook concluded his ... READ MORE

CENTRAL MARYLAND CHAPTER - 02/22/2024

Attendees enjoy the 17th annual Valentine Gala in February at the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland. The chapter held its 17th annual Valentine Gala in February at the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland. With more than 400 industry, government and military attendees, this event is always a huge hit. Guests received individual portraits and delicious food, followed by live music, dancing and fun. This was a can't-miss event and the chapter is already looking forward to next year.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA CHAPTER - 02/21/2024

In February, (back row l-r) Varis Abdullin, Sean Caulfield, Paul Albertson, Don Frazier, Kevin Haimovici, Devin Edwards, (front row l-r) Anneli Connell, Phil Alcorn, Susan Caulfield, Barbara Osborne, Dianna Black and Liam Walsh gather for a photo. The chapter's February Small Business Breakfast featured a keynote from Philip Alcorn, director of the Army Cyber Technology and Innovation Center (ArCTIC) at U.S. Army Cyber Command (ARCYBER).
Alcorn opened with an overview of ARCYBER's mission to protect and defend Army and Department of Defense network systems. He detailed the interagency collaboration that strengthened their capabilities and pointed to a gap in the rapid acquisition of cyber-specific equipment and capabilities that led to the establishment of ArCTIC.
Under Alcorn's leadership, ArCTIC has become a dynamic hub for the fast-tracked development and deployment of cybersecurity technologies. He shared that the center is actively working to increase its limited acquisition authority, which stands at $500,000 for research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) and $2 million for procurement.
Alcorn underscored ArCTIC's commitment to pioneering research through strategic alliances with government agencies, in ... READ MORE

TURKIYE CHAPTER - 02/21/2024

Omur Hanyalı presents during the February webinar. In the webinar "Overview of Submarine Combat Management Systems" presented by Omur Hanyali, the operations of submarines, the masters of the depths, the sound of depth and the compilation of a recognized tactical picture by submarines were evaluated.

In the webinar, chapter members learned about the need for an integrated structure, especially where acoustic sensors are intertwined with the combat management system, and how it was achieved to meet the needs of submarine systems that differ from surface combatant platforms. Attendees learned the place and functions of these systems, which include the capabilities provided by developing technology, with the network-enabled capabilities in the operational environment.

BELVOIR CHAPTER - 02/20/2024

Chapter Emerging Leader Elizabeth Moon (far r) and chapter officers and board members Lyndsey Hoe and Mollie Pearson (far left) pause for a photo at the February event. In February, the chapter's Emerging Leaders hosted their second Roundtable. This event was a conversation with Kaitlin Bulavinetz, associate director, science & technology (S&T) analysis & policy integration within the Office of Strategic Intelligence & Analysis and senior advisor to the principal director for advanced computing and software, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering (OUSD(R&E)) in Defense S&T Innovation and Policy Integration. This was an insightful evening where the group discussed the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving world of information technology.

EMERALD COAST CHAPTER - 02/20/2024

STEM science project winners (l-r) Elena Henderson, Aurora Mendenhall, Jackson Despard and Owen Parry, display their awards at the February East Panhandle Regional Science Fair in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. For more than 10 years, the chapter has presented awards to middle school students participating in the East Panhandle Regional Science Fair in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, for STEM projects. This year, chapter members, Glenda Robinson and Luke Colinco were the chapter judges.

The awards were the following: First Place and $250: Aurora Mendenhall; Second Place and $200: Elena Henderson; Third Place and $150: Owen Parry; and Fourth Place and $100: Jackson Despard.

CENTRAL FLORIDA CHAPTER - 02/20/2024

Pictured (l-r) are Col. Brian Kadet, chapter member at large; Eddie Peña, STEM scholarship chair; Saddy Bulla, student, University of South Florida; Christopher Stern, student, University of South Florida; and Joe Haulton, chapter first vice president. In February, the chapter's STEM Scholarship Committee member, Will Ceglar, presented a STEM Scholarship to Taylor Hanes, a dedicated cyber-intelligence major at the University of South Florida.

Additionally, the chapter was proud to present STEM Scholarships to the talented students of the University of South Florida's College of Information & Technology.

Congratulations to all the recipients! Your passion and dedication to STEM are truly inspiring. Thank you for being the future of innovation!

CENTRAL MARYLAND CHAPTER - 02/13/2024

The The chapter awarded Rachael Lynch the "Save the Day" award at this month's luncheon for her support leading the chapter's annual Valentine Gala. Lynch has run the chapter's Valentine Gala for several years with great success. The gala takes place at the Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Maryland. With more than 400 industry, government and military attendees, this event is a huge hit! Lynch worked tirelessly to ensure everything came together seamlessly for this event, never missing any details. From fun individual portraits at guests' arrival, delicious food, great music and dancing, this was a can't-miss event. Lynch led the gala committee through an outstanding event. The chapter couldn't have done it without her and is already counting down until next year's gala!

CENTRAL MARYLAND CHAPTER - 02/13/2024

In February, Bethany Jedlicka (c) receives the Unsung Hero Award. The chapter awarded Bethany Jedlicka the "Unsung Hero" award at this month's luncheon. Bethany has been a key member of the Women in AFCEA (WIA) committee since 2022, supporting the event planning and behind the scenes execution of multiple WIA events throughout each chapter year.

This chapter year, Jedlicka has provided outstanding planning coordination for several existing and new WIA events including the Women's Speaker Series (Technology focus: AI/ML) last October, the Women's Podcast Spotlight Roundtable last November, and the WIA Game Night Social on February 22. Last year, Jedlicka supported planning and execution of the following events: the Women's Speaker Series Cyber Panel and the WIA-WIIG Women's Leadership Roundtable.

In addition to volunteering for WIA, Jedlicka works full time at NiSUS Technologies Corporation, providing business development support and is finishing her bachelor's in software development at the end of this year. Even with her incredibly ... READ MORE

PACIFIC NORTHWEST CHAPTER - 02/10/2024

In February, chapters officers pose with event sponsor, Iridium. The chapter hosted its annual symposium on January 31 and February 1, 2024. More than 400 attendees and 40 vendors attended to hear from 20+ industry experts, military leaders and government representatives. Attendees engaged with speakers and vendors to tackle various challenges facing the armed services in the Pacific theater. Col. Dean Smith, chapter president, and Lt. Gen. Susan Lawrence, USA (Ret.), president and CEO, AFCEA International, provided opening remarks, while Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, USA, commander general, I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McChord, gave the opening keynote.

Satellite communications operations and governance, cybersecurity, and the evolution of artificial intelligence and others generated thoughtful discussions. Presentations from military, industry and government experts reinforced the need for partnerships to develop and provide solutions globally.

AFCEA Regional Vice President Tim Martin, Northwestern Region, provided the final day's open ... READ MORE

ALAMO CHAPTER - 02/06/2024

In February, chapter members participate in the Software Factory Networking Event in San Antonio. In February, the chapter supported the latest U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Software Factory Coalition meet-up in San Antonio. DoD Platform One and Unified Platform played a pivotal role in setting up the two-day event for members of various software factories to get together for an exciting collaboration opportunity, fostering functional innovation for cutting-edge solutions and advancements in the DoD.

In the evening, attendees joined chapter members, guests and corporate partners at Bentley's Beer Garden to continue networking and collaborative discussions. The chapter was excited to support DoD partners and live up to AFCEA's mission to connect people, ideas, and solutions globally.

LEXINGTON-CONCORD CHAPTER - 02/05/2024

Maj. Gen. Genatempo of Command, Control, Communications and Networks Directorate (center l), and Hanscom Air Force Base leaders join Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, commander, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (center r), on stage at the February event. In February, the chapter hosted the Annual State of Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Address, featuring Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, commander of the AFLCMC, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Gen. Shipton provided an insightful keynote address highlighting the AFLCMC vision of supporting Air Force Operational Imperatives, the accomplishments of the workforce at Hanscom Air Force as part of AFLCMC, the unique ecosystem in New England of federally funded research and development centers, universities and industry partners and how Air Force Materiel Command is preparing for the Great Power Competition. The chapter also presented a $5,000 check to Operation Warmheart, with Chief Master Sgt. Alan Weary, command chief master sergeant for the 66th Air Base Group, accepting.


A special thanks to the chapter sponsors who make all this possible: Abacus Technology, Applied Research Solutions, Astrion, Expansia, MainSail, Odyssey Systems, Quantech Services and SAI ... READ MORE

TURKIYE CHAPTER - 02/01/2024

In February, M. Tuncay Gencoglu, associate professor, Firat University, presents during the chapter's webinar. In February, the webinar titled "Quantum Technologies and Intelligence" presented by M. Tuncay Gencoglu, associate professor, Firat University, significantly impacted participants' perspectives on the developments in quantum technologies and the effects of these technologies, especially on the field of intelligence.

The rise of quantum technologies also creates an art of storytelling. Starting with the mysterious world of subatomic particles and extending into the depths of global cyber networks, this story will not only increase the information processing capacity of each qubit but will also reweave the fabric of cybersecurity and intelligence.

Webinar attendees received answers to questions such as how quantum transformation will shape the future of the cyber world and how intelligence collection and analysis methods will evolve with these new technologies that are hidden in the depths of quantum.

CENTRAL MARYLAND CHAPTER - 01/30/2024

Panelists Stacy Trammell, president and CEO at Zavda Technologies LLC (c); Jacqui Magnes, CEO at COMSO (second from l); and Alison Flanigan, CEO at Omega Minds (third from l); with moderator Tiffany Tong, chapter vice president of WIA and business development/capture manager at Leidos (second from r), gather for a photo with Amy Ratzburg, chapter vice president of WIA (far l); and Kirsten Miller-Jones, chapter vice president of small business affairs (far r), at the January event. The chapter's Women in AFCEA (WIA) and Small Business Committees joined forces to hold a Woman-Owned Small Business Panel. The panel featured Stacy Trammell, president and CEO at Zavda Technologies LLC; Alison Flanigan, CEO at Omega Minds; and Jacqui Magnes, CEO at COMSO, with moderation by Tiffany Tong, chapter vice president of WIA and business development/capture manager at Leidos.

Discussions included the importance of networking and building connections, making investments in growth, finding work/life balance and guiding principles for each panelist in their businesses.


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