The Young (40 and under) AFCEANS group consists of both government and industry AFCEA members. Our purpose is to support the NoVA Chapter; promote synergy among the younger Chapter members; foster networking and alliances; and offer opportunities for mentorship and professional growth. We host networking events, mentorship-themed events, community activities, socials, as well as provide support to Chapter events and programs. Some of our networking and social events are in conjunction with other Chapters, such as Fort Belvoir or Washington, DC, offering an even greater opportunity to meet new people in the industry. We support the NoVA Chapter by escorting VIPs at Chapter conferences and events, “stuffing bags” for Army, Air Force, DISA, and Navy IT Days, serving on planning committees, and help out with anything else required!

One of the highlights of the YAFCEANS program is the Mentor Protégé Night, an evening of networking, panel Q&A, and the opportunity to get up close and personal with government and industry’s senior leadership. Last year’s Mentor Protégé Night was held at Maggiano’s in Tyson’s Corner. This sellout event boasted the Army’s Vice Chief Information Officer, a U.S. Navy Read Admiral, several retired SES-level individuals, and industry executives as speakers. Young AFCEANS were afforded the opportunity to both network with and sit side-by-side with these accomplished leaders.

This year, the Chair of the Young AFCEANS is Karyn Richardson. Katie Gladhill serves as the Vice Chair. Contact Karyn and Katie to learn more!