AFCEA International Chapter News
Chapter:
HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 04/24/2025
Caitlin Johnson (l), chapter president, stands with Julie Stark, science and technology manager for combatant craft at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock Division, and director of the NavalX Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge, at the April luncheon. At April's networking luncheon, the chapter had the privilege of hosting Julie M. Stark, a prominent figure in naval science and technology. Stark currently serves as the science and technology manager for combatant craft at the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Carderock Division, and also holds the role of director of the NavalX Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge (MATB).

Stark is a subject matter expert in her field with a rich background in human factors ergonomics, autonomy and automation, unmanned systems, robotics, warfighter performance and systems design. Within NSWC Carderock Division, she plays several critical roles: lead human factors scientist, member of the Carderock Command Science and Technology Council and director of the Human Research Protection Program, reporting directly to the commanding officer.

During her presentation, Stark provided an in-depth overview of the NavalX Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge, emphasizing its mission as a "super-connector" between the ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/29/2025
Tidewater Community College students and faculty pose for a photo at the March Coding Competition. In March, a much-anticipated Coding Competition was sponsored by the Business, Computer Science & IT Pathways at Tidewater Community College, a local Hampton Roads Community College. The event gathered 18 skilled students from a collection of 28 registrants, forming six teams of three to take on a series of demanding algorithmic programming challenges. The competition mirrored real-world scenarios students may encounter in academic settings or professional software development roles.

Participants sharpened their collaborative programming skills throughout the day, learning to approach complex problems from multiple angles while working effectively in teams. Events like these enhance technical ability and foster vital interpersonal and problem-solving skills essential for success in STEM careers.

The Computers for Success Club at Tidewater Community College, our local AFCEA Chapter, and the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) all contributed prizes to recognize the ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 01/14/2025
Chapter Vice President  of Education Dennis Garcia (l), and Chapter President Caitlin Johnson (r), stand with the STTA Program winners and their students in January. The chapter kicked off 2025 with an awards ceremony giving away $5,000 for its STEM Teaching Tools Awards (STTA).

Every year, the chapter promotes effective STEM education by enhancing the resources available to STEM teachers in middle and secondary schools in the Hampton Roads area through a joint effort of the AFCEA International Educational Foundation and the chapter. Five teachers from three different schools in the area were awarded and brought some of their STEM students.

Congratulations to all our STTA recipients:
Sarah McDonald, Lakeland High School, Suffolk, Virginia
Heather McGee, Lakeland High School
Amy Jacobs, Lakeland High School
Joey Seal, Nansemond Suffolk Academy, Suffolk, Virginia
James Reich, teaching, Virginia Beach Advanced Technology Center, Virginia Beach, Virginia

Following the awards ceremony, the chapter swore in its new and returning board of directors:

Caitlin Johnson, president
Kelly Jen ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 04/08/2025
In March, 23 participants attend the chapter's inaugural Tea Time event in Virginia Beach. In March, the chapter and its Emerging Leaders hosted a first-ever inspiring and engaging event: AFCEA Tea Time. This unique gathering occurred at The English Rose Tea Room in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where professionals from various fields engaged in meaningful discussions over a delightful spread of teas and treats.

The event provided a relaxed yet stimulating environment where attendees explored key topics essential to professional and personal growth. Discussions were structured around five fundamental themes: ResponsibiliTY, AuthenticiTY, TenaciTY, IngenuiTY and CreativiTY. These themes served as a foundation for conversations to foster leadership, innovation and collaboration within the AFCEA community.

Attendees were given an opportunity to build relationships and strengthen networks among professionals in the Hampton Roads area. With an exquisite selection of teas and an assortment of sweet and savory items, attendees enjoyed an atmosphere that encouraged open ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/28/2025
Spring is a busy time for the chapter, with multiple events held in March. This year, the chapter has hosted or participated in significant events that reinforced its commitment to education, professional development and academic collaboration.

In March, the chapter hosted its 2nd Annual Hampton Roads Navy Small Business Expo in Hampton, Virginia. The event attracted hundreds of companies and professionals who gathered to network, participate in workshops and professional matchmaking, and engage in demonstrations and discussions on critical topics, including government solicitations. This event was an invaluable learning experience, fostering knowledge-sharing between industry leaders and small businesses while highlighting career and academic pathways within the defense sector. Many sponsors and U.S. Navy commands came together for the event, including Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center, Amentum, ManTech, Tecnico, Convergint, Propulsion Controls Engineering, BAE Systems, GDIT, Vertiv, RGBSI, Portsmouth Virg ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/18/2025
For February's Luncheon, the chapter was joined by Capt. Alex Hampton, USN.

Hampton, a native of Chicago, graduated from The University of Illinois in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Program and earned his designation as a Naval Aviator in February 2001.

Hampton's career includes initial fleet training with the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron 106 and operational flying with the "Sunliners" of Strike Fighter Squadron 81. He deployed with Carrier Air Wing 17 onboard USS John F. Kennedy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He also attended the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) and was the Air-to-Air employment subject matter expert at the East Coast Weapons School.

Demonstrating exceptional leadership throughout his career, Hampton has held critical roles that shaped operational effectiveness and naval aviators' professional development. He served as trai ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/08/2025
Dennis Garcia, chapter vice president of education, and Leigh Armistead calculate the final scores at the March event. In March, the chapter had the honor and privilege of serving as judges for the 74th Annual Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair.

The Tidewater Science Congress aims to inspire middle and high school students in the Hampton Roads, Virginia, area by engaging them in research, engineering design and technical writing-essential skills for effectively communicating their findings. Through the annual Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair, students can present their projects to judges from academia and industry. To ensure students can advance to state and national competitions, the congress aligns its protocols, application process and evaluation criteria with those of the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair and the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.

A big 'thank you' goes out to all who volunteered to serve as judges at the 2025 Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair. The chapter had the largest contingent of judges in the Specialty category of an o ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 11/12/2024
The oldest Marine present, Col. Dennis Garcia, USMC (Ret.) (l), passes the piece of cake to the youngest Marine present, Sgt. Joseph Bonilla (r) during the chapter's cake-cutting ceremony in November. The chapter kicked off the U.S. Marine Corps' 249th birthday month with Col. Edward Healey, afloat deputy commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, and a cake-cutting ceremony, honoring the time-honored tradition, celebrating the birth of the illustrious Corps. The youngest Marine present was Sgt. Joseph Bonilla, USMC, from ESG-2, and the oldest Marine present was long-time Hampton Roads Chapter board member and retired USMC Col. Dennis Garcia.

Col. Healey began his discussion with the latest update to the USMC's Force Design 2030 and what that means for the updated strategic guidance, as the United States' priorities turn away from terrorism and toward "divest to invest."

"Marines are ready to fight all over the globe," Col. Healey said, but the characteristics of war are changing.

In recent years, the Marine Corps has made many strides toward modernization, including the following innovations: the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, the Amphibious Co ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 08/13/2024
Congratulations to all the 2024 scholarship recipients awarded during the August luncheon. The chapter kicked off the August luncheon with an awards ceremony for its 2024 Undergraduate Scholarship Program recipients.

The chapter awarded merit-based scholarships to outstanding students from the Southside Hampton Roads area (cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk and Virginia Beach). These scholarships support students pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in one of the STEM disciplines.

These majors will prepare the student for a professional career that supports AFCEA's focus on military communications, cybersecurity, electronics, information technology, data and intelligence systems.

Congratulations to all scholarship recipients! Aamir R., George Mason University; Anthony U, Old Dominion University; David S., Princeton University; Eleanor W., William & Mary; Frederic W., University of Virginia; Gabriel M., Tuskegee University; Grayson B., Virginia Tech; Joshua S., Virginia Tech; Margaret C., Virginia Tech; Robert T., Old Dominion U ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 07/09/2024
Francis Francis "Skip" Hiser III, director of communications and information systems for U.S. Fleet Forces Command in Norfolk, Virginia, delivered an insightful address during July's networking luncheon at the Founder's Inn.

Hiser provided a thought-provoking analysis of global competitive threats posed by China and Russia, emphasizing perpetual conflicts and ongoing threats to the United States and the Department of Defense.

Hiser discussed the pivotal role of Congress in allocating budgets and resources for National Security and National Defense requirements; the public sector, providing quality of life demands against the nation's defense priorities; educating the public, discerning fact from fiction in social media and informing what is truly important to the military mission.

Addressing a significant current challenge, Hiser spoke about navigating the journey from conceptualizing to implementing systems on ships. He emphasized the necessity to "work with industry t ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 06/24/2024
In June, the chapter receives the prestigious Model Chapter Award at TechNet Cyber 2024, hosted by AFCEA International. The chapter received multiple individual awards and the prestigious Model Chapter Award at TechNet Cyber 2024, hosted by AFCEA International. The event highlighted groundbreaking innovations in cybersecurity and information technology (IT), focusing on "Outpacing the Threat: Align, Adapt, Accelerate.'

Awards celebrated exceptional contributions to cybersecurity and IT leadership: Kelly Jenne of Apex Systems received the IDEA Hero Award for her leadership as senior segment director and Women at Apex ERG Leader, recognized for balancing professional excellence with personal commitments and earning accolades like the Emerging Leadership Award and 40 Under 40.

Tim Harschutz, a Department of Defense ACQ Consultant with Willowtree Management, was honored with the Leadership Award for his longstanding involvement with the chapter, including service as chapter president and active participation in chapter initiatives.

Beth Armistead of KBR and Matthew Umphlet of VITA w ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/12/2024
Capt. Benjamin Goff Jr., USCG, Business Operations Division chief of the C5I Service Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, speaks at the chapter's March Luncheon in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In March, the chapter welcomed Capt. Benjamin Goff Jr. of the U.S. Coast Guard. Capt. Goff currently serves as the Business Operations Division chief of the C5I Service Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. C5I serves as a critical element of the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security and stands for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, and Intelligence. The U.S. Coast Guard's C5I Service Center provides information and situation-awareness products and services, depot-level maintenance and repair services, resource transparency and total asset visibility for the U.S. Coast Guard.

Capt. Goff described the C5I Service Center's focus areas of sustaining U.S. Coast Guard support systems, implementing technology revolutions and ensuring the service center's success through various services, such as navigation, intelligence systems, communications systems, maritime transportation services, human resources and logistics resources.

The U.S. Coast als ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/20/2024
Capt. Brett February's luncheon continued the 2024 momentum, setting the precedent for a packed year for the chapter!

The chapter proudly welcomed Capt. Brett "T-Rex" O'Donovan, USN, commanding officer of Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station, Atlantic (NCTAMS LANT). Capt. O'Donovan discussed one of the U.S. Navy's latest and most significant architectural and technological facilities, MB-100, as one of the Navy's most complex buildings with Command, Control, Communications, Computer, and Intelligence systems, developing a modernized cyber weapons platform, complete with multiple watch floors and two commands.

The chapter recognized the efforts of the NCTAMS LANT MB-100 Transition Team as the Cyber Team Awardee for February for outstanding performance and lasting contributions toward AFCEA's mission of advancing STEM in partnership with government, military, industry and academia. The Transition Team's devotion and superior professional achievement included int ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 01/05/2024
(l-r) Teresa Duvall, outgoing education chair; Andrea Aguas, student, Catholic High School, Norfolk, Virginia; Sebastian Rodriguez, student, Catholic High School; Adam Lewandowski, teacher, Catholic High School; Matthew Umphlet, STEM Teaching Tool Awards chair; and Capt. Christina Hicks, chief of staff of U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, commander, TENTH Fleet, pose for a photo at the January event.

January's luncheon was a loaded event for the chapter.

The new chapter president, Caitlin Johnson, CEO and founder of Input Technology Solutions, was sworn in. Johnson is the chapter's first female president since Teresa Duvall. Also, many new members were sworn into the board:
Chelsey Dolan, vice president of Emerging Leaders; Lt. Kaily Cornick, USN, vice president of communications; Kelly Jenne, executive vice president; Palmer Sims, AFCEA regional vice president; Amy Yendall, vice president of membership; Dennis Garcia, vice president of education; James Tilley, vice president of programs; Teresa Duvall, women's outreach leader; Matthew Umphlet, webmaster; Zeib Parvez, treasurer; Vicci Morabito, vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion; Hillary Boyce, chair, Small Business Committee; Larry Minnick, golf chair; Neil Bourassa, historian; Jenniffer Minks, secretary; and Lt. Col. Clarissa Blair, USN, vice president of military affairs.

The chapter had the d ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 08/22/2023
In August, Tim Harschutz, chapter president (l), pauses for a photo with guest speaker, Jonathan White, USCG, commander. For the August Luncheon, the chapter proudly presented Cmdr. Jonathan White, USCG, who is leading the Coast Guard's rapid transition into a multicloud environment to enable application modernization and zero-trust architecture.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 06/22/2023
In June, the chapter recognizes the 2023 AFCEA Hampton Roads Scholarship Winners. In June, the chapter awarded scholarships to students enrolled for the 2023/2024 academic year as full-time students in one of the STEM disciplines. These majors will prepare the students for a professional career supporting AFCEA's focus on military communications, cybersecurity, electronics, information technology, data and intelligence systems.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 05/07/2023
In April, (l-r) Larry Minnick, Hillary Boyce and Matthew Umphlet show off their awards at TechNet Cyber in Baltimore. Congratulations to the 2023 AFCEA International Spring Awards winners presented at the annual TechNet Cyber Conference in Baltimore in April. Larry Minnick won the Leadership Award; Hillary Boyce won the Meritorious Service Award and Matthew Umphlet won the 40 Under 40 Award. Congratulations again to the devoted AFCEA Hampton Roads Award winners! And thanks to the chapter members who attended the Awards Dinner and Conference: Neil Bourassa, Palmer Sims and Teresa Duvall. It was a great evening of awards, fun and fellowship.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 08/16/2022
The chapter awards 11 scholarships totaling $30,000 in August 2022. The chapter is back in the "in-person" business! Since May of 2022, the chapter has been hosting a number of in-person events putting its members in touch with the Department of Defense and state newsmakers.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/17/2020
Sailors from the Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (back row from l-r) Officer 2nd Class Joshua Rogers, USN, Cryptologic Technician Networks; Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyle Ducey, USN, Cryptologic Technician Networks; Cmdr. Steve Sollon, USN, executive director; Lt. Junior Grade Selby Arnold, USN; Petty Officer 2nd Class Dillon Johnson, USN, Cryptologic Technician Networks; and Cmdr. Stephen Mills, USN; visit with members of the Old Dominion Student Chapter (front row from l-r) Skylar Power, Ruhi Patel and Brooke White. Old Dominion University Student Chapter hosted sailors from the Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (NCDOC) in February. Students and faculty were able to gain a better understanding of the mission of NCDOC, internship opportunities sharing information about the cyber mission, potential roles and responsibilities of various cyber personnel across our command and what a "day-in-the-life" of cyber personnel (or student interns) might look like while at NCDOC. Students asked the representatives to discuss multiple topics ranging from the process of acquiring a security clearance; the skills, certifications and/or degrees needed for entry-level positions; internship opportunities; and even reservist information for current student veterans. Special thanks to the executive officer, Cmdr. Steve Sollon, USN, for taking time out of his busy schedule to come out and give his personal insights on life in the Navy cyber world. Thanks to Rebecca Siders for coordinating all the details of th ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 11/23/2019
Pausing for a photo, Lt. Cmdr. Larry Nicholls, RN, U.S. Joint Staff J-6 UK liaison officer, coordinates a November visit for (l-r) Matthew Unphlet; Skylar Power, Old Dominion University (ODU) student chapter vice president; Ruhi Patel, chapter secretary; Cmdr. Stephen Mills, USN, chapter vice president of military affairs; Brooke White, ODU chapter president; Tim McDonald; and Meghan Mills. Students from the AFCEA Old Dominion University (ODU) Student Chapter had the unique opportunity to tour the HMS Queen Elizabeth during her recent port visit to Norfolk, Virginia, in November. The HMS Queen Elizabeth is the lead ship of the Queen Elizabeth class of aircraft carriers, the largest warships ever built for the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom, capable of carrying up to 70 aircraft. She is 932 feet long with a beam of 240 feet at the flight deck and is powered by an integrated electric propulsion system via two Rolls-Royce Marine 36 megawatt MT30 gas turbine alternators and four 10 megawatt diesel engines, enabling her to reach speeds of 32 knots. The ship is named in honor of the first Queen Elizabeth, a World War I-era super-dreadnought, which, in turn, was named after Queen Elizabeth I. HMS Queen Elizabeth was in Norfolk, Virginia, for the final port visit of her 2019 WESTLANT deployment before she headed back to her homeport in Portsmouth, England. This deployment w ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 08/13/2019
Awardees receive their AFCEA 2019 STEM Scholarship at the August event. In August, the chapter co-hosted a NAVIFOR Data Analytics Industry Day. This event was built around the chapter's monthly luncheon. Other agenda items included opening remarks from Vice Adm. Brian Brown, USN, commander, Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR); a C5I campaign plan metrics presentation; industry and government panels; and a RAVEN program brief by NAVWAR.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 07/09/2019
At the July luncheon, Neil Bourassa, chapter president, presents Brian Dinh, IntellecTechs (r), with an award for Civilian Cyber Professional of the Month. In July, the chapter presented its 2019 STEM scholarships and Civilian Professional of the Month Awards during the monthly luncheon.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 06/04/2019
Volunteers at the chapter and AFCEA International membership tables pause for a photo at the June conference. Pictured are (back row, l-r) Hillary Boyce, Rhett Begley, Palmer Sims, Dave Johnson, Jim Tilley and (front row, l-r) Theresa Sims and Pat Crawford. The Maritime IT Summit was hosted in June by the chapter in conjunction with the DON IT Conference, East Coast 2019. This was the third annual summit held at Hilton Norfolk The Main Hotel near the Norfolk waterfront. Key events included the Young AFCEAN social, small business events, HackWarz cyber competition, and the sponsored monthly chapter luncheon.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/05/2019
Adrian Gheorghe, a professor of engineering management and systems engineering at Old Dominion University, provides an overview of blockchain technology at the March Lunch and Learn. In March, the chapter held a Lunch and Learn event. Adrian Gheorghe, a professor of engineering management and systems engineering at Old Dominion University, delivered an interactive and intriguing presentation on blockchain technology. Topics included an overview of what blockchain is, what it can be used for, and possible future applications. AFCEA members were able to obtain continuing education units for their attendance.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/27/2019
Local businesses engage and network at the chapter's highly successful event in February. In February, the chapter presented a Small Business Networking and Teaming Event. Hosted by ABS Technology and the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development, this highly successful event provided an avenue for local business to learn, engage and build network connections. Special guests included Senator Mark Warner's military affairs liaison and the Small Business Contracting Office Air Combat Command Acquisition Management and Integration Center, Langley Air Force Base, Virginia.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/19/2019
Col. Jeffrey Johnson, USAF (Ret.), vice president, JMark Services Inc., presents declassified Cold War era depictions during the February luncheon. The chapter hosted Col. Jeffrey Johnson, USAF (Ret.), vice president, JMark Services Inc., as our February luncheon keynote speaker. Col. Johnson presented declassified information and personal anecdotes from the Cold War era and framed it in context with today's cyber environment. The discussion was thought-provoking and provided a backdrop for critical thinking in a changing world.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 01/08/2019
Hallie Balkin, program attorney for Program Executive Office Command and Control, Communications, Computers at SPAWAR Headquarters, gives a presentation on the other transaction authority process at the chapter's January luncheon. The chapter's first luncheon of 2019 was a great success. The January keynote speaker was Hallie T. Balkin, program attorney for Program Executive Office Command and Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence at Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) Headquarters. Balkin delivered an engaging yet informative presentation on the other transaction authority process.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 12/11/2018
Capt. Jody H. Grady, USN, commanding officer, Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic, presents at the chapter's luncheon in December. At the chapter's luncheon in December, Capt. Jody H. Grady, USN, commanding officer, Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic, presented an update on current communication issues facing the Navy.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 06/14/2016
During the chapter's June luncheon, Chapter President Palmer Sims (r) thanks guest speaker Capt. Matthew R. Lear, USN, commanding officer for the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic.  The chapter hosted its monthly luncheon in June. The guest speaker was Capt. Matthew R. Lear, USN, commanding officer for the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic. During the luncheon, Chapter President Palmer Sims also presented the Civilian Cyber Professional Award to Alan Balisacan.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 04/12/2016
Rear Adm. Jeffrey R. Penfield, USN, commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Forces, guest speaks at the luncheon in April.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/15/2016
Attendees at the March luncheon are (l-r) Chapter President Palmer Sims; Col. Jenniffer Romero, USAF, chief, Cyberspace Environment Division (JIOR) at Joint Staff J7; Col. David Olszowy, USMC (Ret.), deputy chief information officer, Military Sealift Command; John McKenna, COMSUBLANT; and new AFCEA Life Member Arthur Hernandez.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/18/2016
Representing the chapter, Teresa Duvall (c), receives her Women's Appreciation Award during the 2016 AFCEA West Conference in March in San Diego along with Palmer Sims (l) and Vice Adm. Jan Tighe, USN. Chapter member Teresa Duvall received her Women's Appreciation Award during the 2016 AFCEA West Conference in March in San Diego.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/09/2016
(l-r) Chapter President Palmer Sims joins speaker Capt. Katherine Mayer, USN, deputy assistant chief of staff, Naval Information Forces and Women in AFCEA Award winner Teresa Duvall at the chapter's February luncheon. Guest speaker Capt. Katherine Mayer, USN, deputy assistant chief of staff, Naval Information Forces addressed the chapter at the February luncheon.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 01/12/2016
Capt. Eric Tapp, USN, commanding officer, speaks during the January luncheon. During the chapter's January luncheon, Robert Turner was awarded the Civilian Cyber Professional Award and guest speaker Capt. Eric Tapp, USN, commanding officer, addressed members.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 12/08/2015
(l-r) Tidewater Chapter Vice President of Industry, Rick Gay; Tidewater Chapter Director of STEM Franco Garcia; Tidewater Chapter Director of Programs Sam Moore; Christine Moore; David Tereira; Hampton Roads Chapter President Palmer Sims; Regional Vice President Steve Kelley; Hampton Roads Chapter Executive Vice President Neil Bourassa; and Hampton Roads Chapter Vice President of Programs Larry Minnick. The Hampton Roads and Tidewater chapters held a joint holiday social at the Sewells Point Golf Course clubhouse in Norfolk, Virginia. Col. Ronald M. Zich, USMC (Ret.), was the guest speaker.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 11/10/2015
Capt. Scott A Beauregard, USCG, commanding officer, Command, Control and Communications Engineering Center (C3CEN) (r), shakes hands with Chapter President Palmer Sims during the chapter's November luncheon. The chapter held its November luncheon and featured speaker Capt. Scott A. Beauregard, USCG, commanding officer, Command, Control and Communications Engineering Center (C3CEN). It also celebrated the Marine Corps' 240th birthday.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 10/30/2015
Attending the chapter's Young AFCEAN networking social are (l-r, front to back) Christy Fanelli, Dave Pereira, Neil Bourassa, Wayne Murray, Michael Feggans and Alex Brown. The chapter's Young AFCEAN networking social was held in October at Gordon Biersch in Virginia Beach. Attendees included Young AFCEAN Christy Fanelli, Dave Pereira, Neil Bourassa, Wayne Murray, Michael Feggans and Alex Brown.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 09/15/2015
AFCEAN of the month Nhelly Hughes (c) of the Old Dominion University (ODU) Student Chapter, with (from l) Neil Bourassa, Chapter President Palmer Sims and ODU's Dr. Stephen Gordon, receives her award during the September luncheon. AFCEAN of the month Nhelly Hughes of the Old Dominion University (ODU) Student Chapter received her award during the chapter's September luncheon. Joining her were Neil Bourassa, Chapter President Palmer Sims and Dr. Stephen Gordon from ODU.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 10/13/2015
Guest speaker Rep. Scott Rigell of Virginia's 2nd Congressional District (r) sits with Chapter President Palmer Sims at the October luncheon. Guest speaker Rep. Scott Rigell of Virginia's 2nd Congressional District spoke about his concerns during the chapter's October luncheon. Consistent with his efforts to create jobs for Virginia through energy-independent policies, Rigell introduced legislation passed by the House of Representatives that would produce more than 25,000 jobs and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil. Rigell is deeply concerned about maintaining a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government and introduced legislation that protects Congress' war powers and prevents current and future presidents from overreaching into legislative business.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 06/09/2015
Capt. Kevin Hill, USN, commander, Afloat Training Group Atlantic, speaks at the June luncheon. The chapter welcomed the 2015-16 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) scholarship award winners and their parents to its June monthly luncheon with keynote speaker Capt. Kevin Hill, USN, commander, Afloat Training Group Atlantic. Arthur Hernandez, chapter vice president of education, presented.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 11/12/2014
Rear Adm. Kathy Creighton, USN, chief of staff, Task Force Cyber Awakening, addresses a sold-out November chapter luncheon in Norfolk, Virginia.  Rear Adm. Kathy Creighton, USN, chief of staff, Task Force Cyber Awakening, addressed a sold-out November chapter luncheon in Norfolk, Virginia.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 05/20/2014
Lt. Col. Jenniffer Romero, USN, chapter vice president for military affairs, and Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vanderlip, USN, chapter president, greet each other at the Cyber Lunch and Learn in May. Hampton Roads AFCEA 2014 Cyber Lunch and Learn

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 04/13/2014
The Mid-Atlantic ROTC commanding officer (l); Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vanderlip, USN (2nd from l), chapter president; and Rear Adm. Pete A. Gumataotao, USN (r), commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, present the chapter's ROTC Honor Award to Midshipman Shawn Sides, Navy ROTC, at the April meeting. In April, the chapter held an event at Regent University featuring a speech by Rear Adm. Pete A. Gumataotao, USN, commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. During the meeting, Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vanderlip, USN, chapter president, remarked on the chapter's support for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education programs, such as scholarships, teach grants and support for the Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair to help encourage students to develop an interest in studying the disciplines that will prepare them for careers as the next generation of professionals in this industry. The chapter contributed $1,000 this year to defray the administrative costs of the Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair and also awarded $900 in prize money to the three Senior Division and three Junior Division students: First Prize $200; second prize $150; and third prize $100. In addition, the chapter presented its ROTC Honor Award, which recognizes an individual cadet or midshipman fo ... READ MORE

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 03/11/2014
Together at the March luncheon are (l-r) Information Systems Technician 1st Class Corey Walker, USN, Military Cyber Professional of the Month; Tracy Carroll, Civilian Cyber Professional of the Month; Rear Adm. Diane Webber, USN, commander, U.S. Navy Cyber Forces and guest speaker; and Larry Minnick, chapter vice president and AFCEAN of the Month. Rear Adm. Dianne Webber, USN, commander, U.S. Navy Cyber Forces, delivered a presentation entitled “Information Dominance Forces 101” during the chapter's March luncheon.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 02/11/2014
Lt. Cmdr. Dave Pereira, USN (l), chapter Young AFCEAN chair, awards Treci Dimas with the February AFCEAN of the Month Award. Vice Adm. Robert C. Parker, USCG, has served as commander of the Coast Guard Atlantic Area since 2010. Previously, Adm. Parker he had served as the U.S. Southern Command's director of security and intelligence. He delivered a speech to the chapter in February in which he covered some important practices of information sharing. He stressed the necessity to collaborate with the private sector and create functional relationships with those who do not have a "command and control" attitude. To achieve this, there must be a common governance structure between organizations.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 01/13/2014
In January, Dave Johnson discusses new chapter initiatives for 2014 January's luncheon featured Rear Adm. Scott B. Jerabek, USN, who was originally scheduled to speak at the October luncheon. The admiral discussed the Navy's initiatives to support new technology and research from small private sector firms. He specifically discussed some recent projects involving drone technology and the process his department uses to screen and select which "grassroots solutions" they will preview and consider.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 12/10/2013
Capt. Mark Guzzo, USN (l), assistant chief of staff for the C41 Carrier Strike Group; Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vanderlip, USN (2nd from r), chapter president; and Lt. Cmdr. Dave Pereira, USN (r), Young AFCEAN chair, present the December Military Cyber Professional of the Month Award to Information Systems Technician 1st Class Ryan Elliot, USN. Capt. Mark Guzzo, USN, is currently the assistant chief of staff for the C41 Carrier Strike Group. Capt. Guzzo recently participated in the Eisenhower Group's quick turnaround, returning in December of 2012 and deploying again in February. His presentation to the chapter in December stressed the importance of communication systems integration between coalition partners, citing his recent work with a German frigate. One challenge that he envisioned going forward for the Navy is how the old RF system will integrate with their work with partners in the industry side. Capt. Guzzo believes that for the Navy to successfully operate under new systems, which in turn require less people, the individuals holding those positions will have to possess a superior level of technical expertise.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 11/13/2013
Monica Shephard, deputy vice director, Joint Staff J-7, delivers a speech titled In November, the chapter welcomed Monica Shephard, deputy vice director, Joint Staff J-7, who began working for the Navy in 1981 and now holds the senior civilian executive role for the Joint Staff in Suffolk. She oversees an organization that aims to preserve and develop the joint force. She assumed the role of J-9 deputy director in 2008 and remained until 2011, when the command was officially disbanded. She delivered her presentation, “Decade of War,” sharing her experiences in the Joint Forces Command, which began back in 2004. Her experiences include working as the lead for the Prototype Pathway Project as well as the Innovation Group director role, which she assumed in 2006.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 10/08/2013
Lt. Cmdr. Doug Vanderlip, USN (r), chapter president, and Steve Frazier present the Civilian AFCEAN of the Month Award for October to Patti Hamilton, president of Hamilton Consulting Solutions Corp. Dr. Stephen Gordon, program director, Graduate Certificate in Public Procurement and Contract Management, Old Dominion University, has 35 years of experience in public purchasing and contracting. He has contributed to the practice of public procurement and contract management through research, writing, consulting and helping individuals plan and prepare careers in public service. Gordon was able deliver an interactive presentation at the October luncheon on very short notice following the original speaker's inability to attend. Gordon gave an overview of his past work in contract procurement and provided his expert opinion on the current condition and future outlook of defense contracting.

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER - 09/10/2013
Francis A. Skip Hiser III, executive director, requirements and assessments for the commander, Naval Network Warfare Command, U.S. Navy, delivers his presentation on the Readiness Kill Chain to the audience in September. In September, the chapter welcomed Francis A. Skip Hiser III, executive director, requirements and assessments for the commander, Naval Network Warfare Command, U.S. Navy. Hiser served 26 years in the Navy as a naval flight officer and information professional. He served as a mission commander in the P-3C Orion aircraft as well as two carrier tours as a tactical action officer on USS America and a combat systems officer on USS George Washington. Hiser delivered a powerful presentation on the “Readiness Kill Chain,” presenting the Naval Network Warfare Command's capabilities in a response to any major threat. He went into the limitations that could potentially be imposed to the nation's military response in the face of further budget cuts and provided his educated insight on current event issues in national defense ranging from China and Syria to Iran.


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