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President's Commentary: AFCEA Serves Those Who Serve

We seek to serve you because you serve your country. Credit: hamara-stock.adobe.com

Our modern society, our day-to-day lives, and our national security and defense all rely on connections. Satellites, cellphones, computers, tactical radios, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems are all most useful when they network. The same can be said of people.

Since its founding in 1946, AFCEA has provided opportunities for those who serve. Whether you serve in uniform or as government civilians, AFCEA can provide you with the connections, information and solutions you need to fulfill your mission and advance your career. Here at AFCEA, we believe in connections. We believe in leadership, mentorship, partnership and friendship.

AFCEA supports your professional development through its informative events, magazine, online content and continuing education program. Many AFCEA conferences and webinars are approved for continuing education units by organizations such as CompTIA, GIAC and CertNexus. These sessions help members maintain cyber- and technology-related certifications like Network+, Security+ and other required credentials. Remaining up to date and informed in the rapidly changing cyber environment is critical for success.

By attending these events and webinars—either in person or virtually—AFCEA members gain the knowledge and find the solutions for both mission and career success. With AFCEA, you’ll find ample opportunities to learn, grow your skills and maintain your certifications.

Additionally, our committees offer unparalleled professional development and networking opportunities, connecting professionals across various sectors, driving thought leadership and addressing critical issues in technology and security. Our committees allow mid-grade public and private-sector national security professionals to regularly connect with some of the nation’s most accomplished defense, cybersecurity and intelligence community leaders.

No matter where you are, AFCEA keeps you informed, connected and current. We have more than 140 local chapters across the Americas, Europe, the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East, where you can find opportunities to connect, lead, mentor or be mentored, meet new friends and serve the larger national security and defense community in exciting new ways.

AFCEA members can earn scholarships and awards recognizing academic and professional achievement, and access discounts on training and tuition from preferred providers like Carnegie Mellon, Dell and the University of Maryland.

Also, every AFCEA member receives a subscription to SIGNAL Magazine. The award-winning publication has evolved into SIGNAL Media and now includes breaking news online, webinars and a podcast. SIGNAL is a trusted source of news and analysis for technology professionals in defense, intelligence, homeland security and cybersecurity. We think of SIGNAL as the news source for solutions, providing the news, information, innovations, thought leadership, lessons learned and technology solutions that help our readers complete their missions.

Additionally, AFCEA membership provides tailored benefits for active-duty military personnel and civilian government employees. With discounted rates—just $50 for a one-year membership or $120 for three years—AFCEA makes it easy and affordable to join a global network of more than 30,000 professionals. Junior enlisted members (E1–E6) and entry-level government civilians (GS1–GS6) can join for only $20 per year.

Joining is simple. Visit afcea.org/join and select the membership type that fits your status. Once enrolled, you can affiliate with a local chapter to take advantage of regional events and networking opportunities.

AFCEA’s roots trace back to the post–World War II era, when Brig. Gen. David Sarnoff—an under-appreciated communications and electronics titan—along with other military and industry leaders, recognized the need for a collaborative forum to advance communications and electronics. Today, AFCEA continues to support innovation, education and ethical collaboration across the globe.

Whether you’re a young enlisted service member, a seasoned government analyst or a civilian technologist supporting national defense, AFCEA offers the tools, connections and insights to help you succeed.

As you look forward to 2026, please consider becoming part of a legacy that’s building the future of security and technology.

We seek to serve you because you serve your country.

AFCEA International is your bridge to the expertise, technology and people you need to succeed. Our members include enlisted personnel and officers, junior employees, seasoned professionals and government experts representing federal, state and local agencies, all military branches, NATO and other international organizations and the intelligence community.