Student Chapter Activities Stimulates R+D on Defense

The chapter along with the Almada, Covilha and Porto student chapters, organized a meeting in June in Lisbon, Portugal. The objective of the event was to exchange information between government, industry and academy to stimulate research and development (R+D) on defense, detect opportunities for new projects and recruit candidates. Cmdr. Luis Arsenio, PRT N, head of research and development for the General Directorate for Resources at the Portuguese Ministry of Defense, presented the keynote address. He identified priority technology areas for defense and provided guidelines for future R+D projects. The student chapters' presentations showed their capabilities, activities and projects. The AFCEA student clubs in Portugal are linked to the National Scientific and Technological System to stimulate scientific work and projects that addresse the needs of technological development in defense and security sectors. Carlos Sezoes, Stanton Chase International, moderated an industry panel discussion with Nuno Vinagre, Critical Software; Pedro Nunes, Edisoft - Thales Group; Helder Alves, INDRA Portugal; and Pedro Sinogas, Tekever. They discussed their work experience in innovation and opportunities in defense and security, and addressed employability and the competences required for the future in their companies.