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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/29/2025
In May, Col. Andrew Frey, USAF, commander, 2nd Weather Group, 557th Weather Wing, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, shared his thoughts with the chapter on the 557th Weather Wing, America's Weather Wing. Frey pointed out that more than 60% of Americans check the weather daily. People think about what activities they can engage in, then things become more technical and specific. It is this specificity that drives people to obtain input that is more interoperable, correct and integrated when it comes to weather. Frey commented that for the past 25 years, U.S. forces have operated in the Middle East. He clarified that weather can be considered innocuous, but it's often ubiquitous and indifferent to geopolitical boundaries. In other words, the right weather information can underpin a decision advantage. Frey discussed how the 55th Weather Wing was born from the former Air Force Weather Agency. He talked about the 557th Weather Wing's enterprise role. They maintain the U.S ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/24/2024
In May, the chapter hosted the ninth annual Steps for STEM 5K race.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/24/2025
In April, Maj. Gen. Christopher Eubank, USA, chief of staff, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, shared his thoughts with the Greater Omaha Chapter on USSTRATCOM challenges. Eubank initially thanked AFCEA for developing opportunities to help instill STEM expertise in youth and professionals in the Greater Omaha Area. He added this investment directly supports the lines of effort necessary to ensure our nation is poised to succeed through today's unique global challenges. Eubank also talked about the challenges today's military is facing. He mentioned that the Cold War pitted the United States against a single enemy, and in today's environment we're confronted by two nuclear powers, the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation. Eubank discussed the current strategic environment, that it is currently layered across multiple domains. Our adversaries have had years to study our vulnerabilities. And they've had time to create asymmetric appr ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 03/27/2025
In March, Erich L. Krueger, director, Corporate Security, Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), Omaha, Nebraska, spent time apprising the chapter of OPPD's concerns. Krueger started by sharing what has fueled his desire to ensure OPPD stays on the cutting edge of cybersecurity. He tapped into the question of what an Omaha Children's Hospital nurse needs to do her job and what would happen if the power dropped due to unfortunate circumstances. Krueger gave an overview on OPPD, which is the 12th largest public power utility company (by customer) in the United States. To do this, they use a diverse mix of fuels and renewable resources such as coal, wind, natural gas, oil and landfill gas. Krueger stated that OPPD is required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to adhere to NERC standards and added that OPPD serves 13 counties, which comprise 380,000 customers over 5,000 square miles. Krueger said the Corporate Security office currently has 52 personnel who help provide a safe and ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 03/15/2025
The Nebraska State High School VEX Robotics Competition was held in March at North High School in Omaha, Nebraska.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/27/2025
In February, Robert J. Newbauer, USA, commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Omaha District, Omaha, Nebraska, talked with the chapter about the Army Corps of Engineers' mission. Newbauer clarified USACE supports multiple efforts throughout the country as well as worldwide. USACE has a workforce of civilians (98%) and active duty (2%). He discussed how USACE is separated into several districts to support the United States, where his primary focus, the Omaha District, falls within the Northwestern Division. He pointed out how the different districts were formed by tying the borders to the major water routes in the area, where their primary mission is either civil works or military projects. Newbauer commented that in 1824, as the country developed, the United States began to focus on having ports, which prompted development of rivers and waterways to gain access to these ports. He pointed out that the United States counted on West Point to supply/educate the personne ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 01/23/2025
In January, Faisal Hoque, a renowned management thinker, technologist and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author, shared his thoughts with the chapter on building artificial intelligence (AI)-empowered government agencies. AI profoundly changes how things are done. There is a long history with AI, such as mechanical decision tools designed by Leonardo da Vinci and others. Hoque commented we need to look beyond the hype of generative AI to see what is actually happening.Hoque touched on some of the military and intelligence success stories. For example, the Pentagon's joint all-domain command and control (JADC2) program that integrates multiservice data to reduce battlefield decision cycles from hours to minutes. Hoque said the current AI landscape today consists of three main categories: analytical AI, workflow automation and generative AI. He pointed out that because the technology is much more accessible, there are ramifications. Hoque mentioned a new AI of tomorrow c ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 12/12/2024
In December, Thomas Merkle, chapter president, presided over the chapter's annual Holiday Mixer as the master of ceremonies. The mixer was held at the Beardmore Event Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. After the event, Merkle commented, "I love this event! It's the epitome of what we do well: assisting STEM education in area schools. Chapter followers are here in force, some with loved ones you don't often get to see; everyone is smiling and spreading holiday cheer from conversation to conversation; teachers are grinning from ear to ear because this is their night and they know they have earned funds to help implement a STEM initiative that only weeks before they felt was just a pipe dream, but our STEM grants are about to make it a reality; and let's not forget, I get to brush the dust off one of my ugly Christmas sweaters to make a public fashion statement, which is catching on with some of our attendees." When Merkle was asked what he finds most rewarding in guiding the chapt ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/10/2024
In October, the chapter partnered with Federal Direct Access Expositions (FDAE) to conduct an exposition at the Beardmore Event Center, Bellevue, Nebraska. The event boasted more than 212 registered attendees and featured 36 different companies: AdvancedTek, St. Paul, Minnesota; Allegion, Carmel, Indiana; Applied Research Association, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Assa Abloy, New Haven, Connecticut; Axis Communications, Chelmsford, Massachusetts; Bosch Security Systems, Fairport, New York; Cohesity, San José, California; Commscope, Claremont, North Carolina; Corning Optical Communications, Charlotte, North Carolina; Creaform, Pascaline, Canada; FLIR A Teledyne Company, Wilsonville, Oregon; GDIT, Falls Church, Virgina; General Dynamics Mission Systems, Fairfax, Virginia; Graybar, St. Louis, Missouri; Harman Professionals, Stamford, Connecticut; Inotek; Omaha, Nebraska; Iot/AI, Fremont, California; Logistics365 Inc., Norfolk, Nebraska; M2 Technology Inc., San Antonio; MaxCellMaxSpace, Wads ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/10/2024
In October, Brandon Bean, solutions director of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML), General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, Virginia, shared his thoughts with the chapter on AI and where it's headed for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). Bean defined AI as any machine capable of rapidly reaching a conclusion that a human would come to using logic, time and reason. He talked about the first military application in the 1950s when the U.S. Navy had been using natural AI to help decipher communications. Bean clarified how many of us have used AI because it helps search engines when performing queries. Bean talked about OpenAI developing AI Chatbots to increase productivity through writing essays and code. Bean reiterated how AI has been used in the DoD for decades. He touched on basic what-if scenarios. For example, what if I could get 10 more minutes out of my day? Or what if we had to do more with less? He emphasized that we don't want to temper our A ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 08/22/2024
In August, Elizabeth Durham-Ruiz, director, Command, Control, Communications and Computer Systems, and chief information officer, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, shared her thoughts with the chapter on how STRATCOM is making use of artificial intelligence (AI) to aid the warfighter. Durham-Ruiz took a moment to reflect and pointed out she has been a huge supporter/advocate for AFCEA for many years.Durham-Ruiz talked about how AI can be used to assist the workforce and with decision-making. A key mission for USSTRATCOM is ensuring they remain in constant contact with nuclear forces. She discussed how their J65 office was stood up over three years ago with the first chief data officer to make key decisions about governance of data. The challenge was looking at how they could integrate AI and provide value to the command and the warfighter. She commented on Gen. Anthony Cotton's vision for AI-how AI will always have a human in the loop, but ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 06/27/2024
In June, Amy Gilliland, president, General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, Virginia, spent time with the chapter, sharing her thoughts on leadership and the role culture plays in creating an environment for growth and innovation. Gilliland said she was raised by a single mother who was an Army civil servant for 40 years. Her grandfather immigrated to the United States from Switzerland and later joined the military to serve his adopted country. She was influenced by this and saw service to country as a responsibility. She doesn't consider herself a technologist, but she's always surrounded by them. Gilliland discussed market trends and the advent of COVID-19 accelerated technology. She also elaborated on how technology differentiates. In addition to speed, the necessity for security is important; of key significance is learning how to share data at the tactical edge. Gilliland commented that "BYOE" (bring your own energy) is an impetus to creating a culture of innovati ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/25/2024
In May, the chapter hosted 8th Steps for STEM 5K Run/Walk. The race was held at Papillion, Nebraska's Walnut Creek Lake.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/23/2024
In May, Isaac Piper, instructor of technology experiences, Applied Information Management Institute (AIM), Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter, sharing his role within the Omaha community to improve STEM. Piper talked about his job at AIM where he's responsible for fostering youth and technology programs throughout Omaha. Through coordination with area schools, he brings in various experiences with technologies to help inspire students to seek careers in technology. His objective is to build technology literacy skills with kids who might have limited opportunities to interact with technology. Piper discussed some of the tech initiatives he's been involved with, such as the University of Nebraska at Omaha's College in Engineering Computational Thinking Bins, which necessitates hands-on learning and is much more effective than the instructors only talking about what they do. Piper has earned the Federal Aviation Administration Remote Pilot Certificate (Part 107) required to b ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/25/2024
In April, Ron Woerner, senior security and risk consultant, Forrester Research, Cambridge, Massachusetts, gave the chapter an enlightening discussion on surviving security Groundhog Day.Woerner talked about how he came into the military during the early days of electronic warfare. He pointed out how artificial intelligence (AI) is the hottest tech topic of 2024, but it was first introduced in 1956 at Dartmouth. Woerner pointed out that discussions of AI often swirl with mysticism regarding how an AI system functions, but in reality, it is far simpler: AI is a type of software system. He discussed "The Cuckoo's Egg," written by Clifford Stoll. The book talks about the author's efforts to track a spy through a maze of computer espionage, which ultimately ends in identifying a spy cyber network. The same questions that surfaced in tracking down the perpetrator are the exact same questions asked today. We find reoccurring Russian activity against critical infrastructures. They've ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 03/28/2024
In March, Pedro Ramirez, senior technical advisor, Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) Enterprise Center, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter, sharing his thoughts on the Center of Excellence. Ramirez talked about a unique opportunity in 2018, working for the Jacobs Corporation, where he served as the director for Global Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Cyber Security. He had the opportunity to manage teams across the globe and deal with the challenges of location and language differences. He learned early if you're not first, you're last. While abroad, he commented on the difficulties of physical security and dignitaries. They do things so differently because their priorities are different. He discussed the NC3 Enterprise Center's initiative to create the REACH facility as a way to establish a "Center of Excellence." The facility will integrate various areas of expertise under one roof. Ramirez pointed out the ability to perform technical tra ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/29/2024
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
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/29/2024
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
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 01/25/2024
In January, Timothy Vidas, principal engineer, Amazon Web Services, Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter, sharing his thoughts on generative artificial intelligence (AI). To begin, Vidas revealed that his short bio slide was completely generated by generative AI. Vidas referred to generative AI as a subset of artificial intelligence that can create original content. He said it's not the best solution for everything but can be useful in some instances. Vidas feels generative AI is transforming society. It can create new content, improve existing content and personalize content for each individual user. Vidas also commented on generative AI's negative aspects. For instance, it's not very good at predictions/forecasting, classification of items or clustering/grouping. On the extreme end, there are ugly aspects to generative AI, where users engage in IP theft and reverse engineer the model to replicate its behavior. Vidas concluded by pointing out there are clea ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 12/07/2023
In December, Capt. Thomas Merkle, USN, chapter president, presided over the chapter's annual Holiday Mixer as the master of ceremonies. The mixer was held at the Beardmore Event Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. After the event, Capt. Merkle was interviewed and shared his thoughts. When asked about the Holiday Mixer, Capt. Merkle commented that it was a great event where he learned more about several fellow chapter members. He was really inspired to see the motivation of the teachers in attendance, who were excited to receive their grants for STEM learning with their students. Capt. Merkle was asked what he finds most rewarding in guiding the chapter. He replied, "I enjoy the opportunity to meet so many fun, engaging tech-types who are, like me, interested in building the Offutt and broader Omaha, Nebraska, tech community while supporting the country's national security." When asked if he had a message to impart upon high schoolers, Capt. Merkle commented, "If you're interested in tec ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/12/2023
In October, John Sahlin, vice president, Cyber Solutions, General Dynamic Information Technology (GDIT), Falls Church, Virginia, spent time with the chapter sharing his thoughts on the prerequisites for successful zero-trust implementation in the federal government. During his discussion, Sahlin revealed five truths about zero trust. First, it is not a product despite many software vendors trying to sell their zero-trust wares as the solution. It is "an evolving set of cybersecurity paradigms that move defenses from static, network-based perimeters to focus on users, assets and resource."Second, the best practices aren't new, but the technology is. It entails cyber teams and adhering to security best practices. Third, saying you have a mandate is the worst reason to move to zero trust. It's important because the challenge faced is cyber adversaries are evolving. For instance, it takes just under 19 minutes on the average to commit a breach, and over 43% of breaches a ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 08/31/2023
In August, Gary Sparks, program director, Metropolitan (METRO) Community College Cybersecurity Center, Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing METRO's Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) efforts. Sparks pointed out that the CAE community consists of universities and community colleges nationwide working through Homeland Security and the National Security Agency to earn their CAE designation. Currently, 400 schools have CAE designation. It is common practice for CAE institutions to share their assignments, classes and best practices. Above all, this promotes ethical standards and standardized requirements for CAE certification. Sparks talked about providing the local community with support for grades K-12 through training and providing relatable content. Sparks commented that the local community often turns to educators to understand the cyber threats around them.He elaborated on the CAE designation process and clarified that CAE begins after the program of st ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 06/22/2023
The Great Plains-Rocky Mountain regional vice president presented the Greater Omaha Chapter's president with the Model Chapter Award for 2023 and the Member Retention Award for 2023 at the June luncheon.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 06/22/2023
In June, Gen. Anthony Cotton, USAF, commander, U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM), Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing STRATCOM needs. Gen. Cotton said his major objective is recruiting the right kind of STEM personnel. He reflected back to 1992 when the threat was nation-states making advances on the world scene. We've come full circle. For the past 25 years, Russia has been rebuilding and modernizing, threatening to pose the same threat as it once did. He talked about deMIRVING missiles as a lieutenant colonel. Now, as the STRATCOM commander, he's being asked how we are reMIRVING our missiles. Gen. Cotton commented that we are modernizing to ensure we remain fully capable 60 years from now. He talked about the commercial that claims, 'We're not your father's Oldsmobile.' Similarly, he doesn't want to be known as the "nuclear guy" but rather, someone who shows a more modernized "strategic deterrence" responsibility to the nation. Gen. Cotton discu ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/27/2023
In May, the chapter held its 7th Steps for STEM 5K at Walnut Creek Lake in Papillion, Nebraska.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/25/2023
In May, Ethan Cole, deputy regional director, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Region 7, Kansas City, Missouri, spent time with the chapter discussing the CISA role. Cole pointed out that CISA was formed in 2018 with an overall mission to lead the national effort to understand, manage and reduce risk to the nation's cyber and physical infrastructure. He clarified that CISA areas of responsibility mirror the Federal Emergency Management Agency's eight-region breakout. Cole covered CISA's core capabilities relating to critical infrastructure and talked about their four primary mission lines and how CISA is carrying out these missions. Cole talked about how they work out of integrated operations divisions and try to provide information and resources ahead of the curve before it is requested. With limited resources, focus remains on assessing to maximize current assets to stay effective. Cole concluded by emphasizing that CIS ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/27/2023
In April, Jesse E. Bell, director, Water, Climate and Health Program, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, was the guest speaker for the first Dinner With a Scientist event held at Bellevue University. Bell engaged the audience with his story of how he became interested in science. As a little boy, he accompanied his father on outdoor excursions where they engaged in hunting and fishing. His father often turned him loose, and he would hike great distances and see many interesting things. From this early age, Bell was fascinated with the outdoors and tried to understand the natural world around him. This formed the basis of what Bell wanted to do with his life. He discussed his years of education, where he formalized his love of biology and doing research, leading him to a path of applied research. Bell talked about his travels and the jobs he held, each one uniquely preparing him for his work in Lincoln, Nebraska, focused on the environment and its effects on ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/27/2023
In April, Douglas Rausch, director, Cybersecurity Education, and program director for Undergraduate and Graduate Cybersecurity Programs, Bellevue University, Bellevue, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing workforce pathways. Rausch talked about initial STEM exposure for middle school students coming in the form of GenCyber Camp supported by the National Science Foundation and activities like Dinner with a Scientist and Internet of Things-type courses through the university. The objective is to open the students' eyes to STEM. After they know what STEM is, they must decide what to do with it. Rausch continued by discussing high school engagements geared to tweak students' interests like CyberPatriot competitions and VEX Robotics events. Rausch commented on instruction assistance methods like RING, where high schools engage in cybersecurity curriculum, labs and developing faculty by certifying them in computer education. Rausch next talked about college, where stu ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 03/29/2023
In March, Rahul Jalali, senior vice president and chief information officer, Union Pacific Railroad, Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing his role at Union Pacific (UP). Jalali began by exclaiming that his life has been "R & R," where he has gone from "retail" to "railroad."In addition to the mission, he was drawn to UP's purpose of building America. One guiding principle he learned early is that if a company does not have technology as its organization's headlight, it will cease to exist. He added that 53% of companies had gone away for not following this guideline. Jalali discussed the challenge of integrating technology but doing it in a modern way. A company needs to establish a tech culture of innovation. Jalali elaborated that to make some changes, he had to become completely obsessed with what the customer wanted. What is the customer's obsession? Jalali also talked about taking full advantage of the cloud and implementing an architecture accommodat ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 02/22/2023
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 01/26/2023
In January, Silva Raker, inaugural CEO, Kiewit Luminarium, spent time with the chapter discussing the new Luminarium. Raker explained that the Luminarium is a collaborative venture. It's a portal for learners of all ages and backgrounds to experiment with astonishing phenomena and engage with their own curiosity. Raker clarified the Luminarium is located on the riverfront where the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge helps tie the gap between Nebraska and Iowa. The Luminarium required whole community involvement backed by diverse workforce development. Raker talked about the board of directors-a globally diverse collaboration that encouraged using a different approach. She explained that there are four primary exhibition spaces: (1) Catch Waves - A space that allows the user to dive into motion, sound, light and heat; (2) Dig Deeper - Explore land, water, structure and tools; (3) Find Yourself - Explore your cells, self and community; and (4) Make it Count - Climb in shapes, patterns and n ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 12/08/2022
In December, the chapter held its annual Holiday Mixer at the Beardmore Event Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. This is an event where the chapter gives back to the membership, the sponsors and chapter supporters. The pinnacle of the mixer was the chapter's award of STEM grants to area educators. The chapter awarded a total of $8,640 to 10 educators from the Greater Omaha Metropolitan area to support their STEM teaching initiatives in their classrooms. The event was sponsored by TEK Systems and boasted an attendance of 71, the chapter's largest Holiday Mixer to date.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/13/2022
In October, the chapter partnered with Federal Data Expositions to conduct the exposition at the Beardmore Event Center, Bellevue, Nebraska. The expo had over 174 registered attendees and featured 36 different companies: American Systems, Chantilly, Virginia; Applied Research Associates, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Bose Corp., Framingham, Massachusetts; CIS Secure, Dulles, Virginia; Cohesity, San Jose, California; David Clark Company, Worcester, Massachusetts; GDIT, Falls Church, Virginia; General Dynamics Mission Systems, Fairfax, Virginia; Graybar, St. Louis, Missouri; Hewlett Packard Enterprises, Spring, Texas; Inotek, Omaha, Nebraska; IoTAI Inc., Fremont, California; Lexmark, Lexington, Kentucky; Logistics365, Norfolk, Nebraska; Lumen, Monroe, Louisiana; M2 Technology, San Antonio, Texas; Metropolitan Community College, Omaha, Nebraska; Owl Cyber Defense, Columbia, Massachusetts; Panasonic, Newark, New Jersey; Plug-In Storage, West Haven, Connecticut; Pure Storage, Mountain View, C ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/13/2022
In October, Sajda Qureshi, director, Information Technology for Development, University of Nebraska Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter, sharing her findings from research performed relating to the pandemic. Qureshi referred to a friend working at UNHCR (United Nations Refugee Agency) as an attaché that encouraged her to travel to Syria to perform research on the collected refugee data due to the bombings in Syria. Qureshi went on a three-month trip to collect data in Syria. This research taught her the importance of understanding the impact of data in our lives. Qureshi pointed out global reference data is used all over the world. She commented on a global problem with the harvesting of data, which she tied to datafying global forces, in turn leading to datafication. This is where each one of us is reduced to a data point. Qureshi discussed how socioeconomic inequities create pockets of data inefficiencies. It creates health inequity when folks don't have access to pertine ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 09/09/2022
In September, the chapter held its 20th Annual Golf Tournament. The tournament boasted 16 teams and generated approximately $8,000 to support the chapter's scholarship and grants program.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 08/25/2022
In August, Col. Jason Mobley, USAF, commander, Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Field Office, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing some of DISA's initiatives.Col. Mobley talked about DISAWORKS, which he likened to the Air Force's AFWERX program, where the goal is to foster a culture of innovation by bringing in academia, industry and others to collaborate and think of new ideas. This approach is a game changer. Col. Mobley commented that as the military continues to move toward all things web, there needs to be increased trust. With the cloud, the Department of Defense realized the necessity to leverage data cloud services. This allows everyone to access the data all of the time. Col. Mobley touched on DISA's pilot for a zero-trust architecture-the Thunderdome initiative uses integrated access via Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) to establish exactly who has access. Authorized users via ICAM gain access to multipl ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 08/20/2022
Jeffrey Weeks, senior vice president and chief information security officer, First National of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska, met with Courtney Nichols, the chapter's lead Emerging Leader, in July after a May Emerging Leaders Tech Tour. Nichols presented Weeks with the chapter's newly developed chapter coin in thanks for his efforts organizing/conducting the tour. "It was a pleasure to spend time with like-minded folks concerned with information security," said Weeks.The Greater Omaha Chapter's new coin was designed by Sarah Arvizu-Barcelo Quiroz, the wife of one of the chapter treasurers, 1st Lt. Lenin Quiroz, USAF. Sarah Quiroz is a graphic designer who majored in visual communications. She spent upwards of 12 hours pinning down the concept and designing the coin. The chapter wanted a design that captured the organizations that support them locally yet has a definite patriotic tie-in-all in the shape of Nebraska! |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 06/23/2022
In June, Maj. Gen. Jennifer Napper, USA (Ret.), vice president and general manager, Army Business Unit, Peraton, Herndon, Virginia, spent time with the chapter discussing her transition to industry.Gen. Napper thanked the chapter for pursuing the country's safety and said the number one question she's received since retiring is how she transitioned to industry. Gen. Napper responded that first, she had to figure out what she wanted to do. During her transition, she found that management/leadership is essential, and she pointed out that as a leader, it's important to continue honing leadership style and understanding that relationships are crucial. She didn't spend her time honing people skills to squander them. Gen. Napper also discussed the benefit of researching a prospective company. She suggested finding a mentor to help with focus and accountability. Ask mentors what they would do differently. She talked about being in groups like AFCEA to foster professional relationsh ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/28/2022
In May, the chapter held the 6th Annual Steps for STEM 5K. Col. Larry Fletcher, USAF, chapter president, addressed the participants for the event, which had 83 participants on race day. Col. Fletcher also thanked all sponsors for helping to make the event possible. The 5K was supported by M2TI; Leidos, Peraton; Hewlett Packard Enterprise; Ivanti; Aruba; Western Governors University; and VeeAM Government Solutions. |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/26/2022
In May, Marc Jones, senior vice president, Public Sector Business, CAST Software Inc., spent time with the chapter discussing the necessity for software measurement. Jones pointed out the impact of software defects, which literally can put a company out of business. He clarified the root cause for most software defects is often the complexity of the software. He commented that some weapon systems are software dependent and that operational flight software support is expected to triple over the next 10 years. Jones touched on his involvement with CISQ, the Consortium for IT Software Quality. In short, the group deals with the measuring of software size and software quality. Jones also talked about the International Standard 5055, which is a software standard that calculates quality measures based on the number or critical weaknesses in the software. These measurements help show what you're getting for the funds expended. Jones concluded by emphasizing ISO 5055 has a significant impac ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/02/2022
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/28/2022
In April, Jeffrey Weeks, senior vice president and chief information security officer, First National of Nebraska (FNN), Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing the intricacies of cyber threats and how best to thwart them. Weeks began by pointing out that FNN is the fourth largest credit card processor in the United States. He commented that he has a workforce of 50 dedicated security professionals, of which five are "ethical hackers." He places their abilities on par with an artificial intelligence detection system used for uncovering nation-state-type attacks. Regarding phishing attacks, Weeks commented that this is one of the primary methods hackers use to gain entry. He clarified upfront that whenever in doubt, delete the email. Once executed, a ransomware email locks the user's system and encrypts their data. The perpetrator will offer a key to break the encryption for a price. The question is, what guarantee do you have that they will follow through? READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 04/14/2022
The La Vista Community Foundation recently partnered with the chapter to support the chapter's STEM Grant goals. The Papillion-La Vista High School Skilled and Technical Sciences Department proved to be a worthy recipient of these funds, which were awarded in April. |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 03/24/2022
In March, James Taylor, deputy executive director, Nebraska Defense Research Corporation (NDRC), Omaha, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing the NDRC's mission. Taylor commented that the NDRC is a nonprofit affiliate of the University of Nebraska Omaha. The NDRC focuses on technology transfer through concept demonstrations that support its sponsor, the Nuclear Command, Control and Communications Enterprise Center. Taylor pointed out that the NDRC's primary mission space is focused on demonstrations. The main areas are combatant commands and the national leadership by leveraging Joint All-Domain Command and Control capabilities. Taylor discussed how the U.S. Strategic Command commander's imperatives are guiding principles. He also pointed out that the NDRC has established partnership intermediary agreements to advance their work. The biggest benefit is that it allows the NDRC to fund its mission partners to help accomplish tasks. The NDRC's Strategic Approach provides the ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 12/09/2021
In December, the chapter held its annual Holiday Mixer at the Beardmore Event Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. This is an event in which the chapter gives back to the membership, sponsors and chapter supporters. The pinnacle of the mixer was the chapter's award of STEM grants to area educators. The event was co-sponsored by GDIT, Sterling and TEK Systems. |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/07/2021
In October, the chapter took part in their October Luncheon as well as the Federal Direct Access Expositions Technology Expo held at the Beardmore Event Center, Bellevue, Nebraska. The Expo has been coincident with the chapter's October luncheon for the past several years. The pairing of the two events has resulted in tremendous success for both activities.
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 10/07/2021
In October, Elizabeth Durham-Ruiz, director, Command, Control, Communications and Computer Systems and chief information officer, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM), Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing the mission of her directorate. Durham-Ruiz pointed out the significance of strategic deterrence. No plans work if strategic deterrence fails. It underpins all plans. She highlighted that Adm. Charles Richard, USN, commander of USSTRATCOM, along with the secretary of defense, have recognized China's recent jump in warfighting capability as "China's strategic breakout."Durham-Ruiz talked about where her directorate is going and how Command and Control Facilities (C2F) 1.0 entailed initial migration to the new facility with increased stability. C2F 2.0/3.0 are notional but may entail more cloud-based capabilities to add resiliency, flexibility, data sharing and more "enterprise capabilities" like DoD365 on the classified network. She discusse ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 08/26/2021
In August, Col. Kristen D. Thompson, USAF, commander, 55th Wing, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing the 55th Wing and how they use information. Col. Thompson touched on Offutt's heritage. It was first used as an Army post called Ft. Crook in the late 1890s but was later renamed after Omaha native 1st Lt Jarvis Offutt, who died during World War I. Col. Thompson added that the 55th Wing is the largest wing in Air Combat Command and the second largest wing in the Air Force. The 55th is host to approximately 50 mission partners on Offutt. Col. Thompson elaborated it's important to talk across organizations functionally. As one of Offutt's mission partners, the 16th Air Force focused on improving lines of effort. Understanding the adversary is the foundation of information warfare and the 16th Air Force will work toward integrating all of the 55th Wing's elements as they are currently working on common problems. Col. Thompson talked about the ... READ MORE |
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 06/24/2021
In June, Rear Adm. Ronald R. Fritzemeier, USN, director, Nuclear Command, Control and Communications (NC3) Enterprise Center, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, spent time with the chapter discussing NC3 and the role of the center. Adm. Fritzemeier provided a historical view of the U.S. posture in strategic and nuclear deterrence. He touched on the Cold War to development of the nuclear triad, which prompted the necessity for the command and control (C2) systems to assure the president of the United States could command and control the nuclear forces. Adm. Fritzemeier elaborated on how 30 years of being the world's uncontested superpower allowed focus to shift so that NC3 was not the number one priority and NC3 systems across the enterprise needed modernization. As the threats to C3 technologies continued to evolve, the secretary of defense established a single department lead for the NC3 enterprise. Adm. Charles Richard, USN, commander, U.S. Strategic Command, was also designated as ... READ MORE
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GREATER OMAHA CHAPTER - 05/17/2021
In May, students from First Baptist School (FBS), Plattsmouth, Nebraska, that were enrolled in the Introduction to Robotics class with instructor Brett Bowser benefited from a chapter STEM grant. The students used a Raspberry Pi to program different lighting sequences on a breadboard circuit through the Thonny program (an integrated development environment). All equipment items were made possible through the STEM grant awarded to FBS as part of the chapter's STEM Grants Award Program. |
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