Southeast’s Largest Defense Summit Opens Registration

The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) has officially opened registration for it’s 13th Annual Defense Summit in Charleston, SC Dec. 11-12, 2019 

CHARLESTON, SC – Aug. 20, 2019 – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA)—a non-profit advocacy group focused on the growth of defense and technology-related industries in Charleston and Lowcountry Region—today announced the opening of registration for the 13th Annual Defense Summit held Dec. 11-12 at the Charleston Convention Center. With more than 1,200 anticipated attendees, the “Accelerate to Dominate” theme will focus discussions about technologies that increase the speed of warfighting innovation.

Last year’s speaker highlights, included:

Marianne Bailey, Deputy National Manager for National Security Systems, National Security Agency  
Kevin M. Fahey, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Acquisition
Francis “Frank” L. Kelley, Jr., Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Unmanned Systems
Ruth Youngs Lew, Navy Program Executive Officer for Enterprise Information Systems

Last year’s hot topics included the modernization of our Naval Ports, AI in arming warfighters and industry acquisition.  Leading sponsor companies from both the private and public sector such as: Accelera Solutions, AT&T, CACI, Dell, ISHPI, KBRWyle, ManTech, Microsoft, McAfee, NSSPlus, Parsons, Red Hat, Red River Technology, Scientific Research Corporation, VMWare and more.

“Each year we see our numbers increase and we take on more pressing and difficult topics. This year is lining up to be our best event yet.  We will be pursuing new topics, such as the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification framework, workforce development and digital transformation in defense,” shared Heather Walker, CDCA President. “We work to bring together top influencers in the space and remove the awkwardnesss of introductions with real tangible connetions like a ‘speed networking’ type of event. Last year we also unveiled an innovation spotlight award to ensure recognition is paid to those leading the charge in reshaping the landscape of defense.”

Along with registration opening, CDCA members and Defense Summit Sponsors are encouraged to submit an abstract to participate in the 2nd annual Innovation Spotlight. The competition is an opportunity for companies to pitch their innovative product during a fast-paced “TED Talk” style presentation during the conference. “Best in Show” will be chosen by audience vote with the winner announced at the Defense Summit.

WHAT & WHEN:
CDCA’s 13th Annual Defense Summit Registration
Early-bird registration is open now for members, non-members, government, and media at https://www.charlestondca.org/summit                                                

2nd Innovation Spotlight competition now accepting abstract submissions from CDCA members and Defense Summit sponsors.

Interested companies should submit an abstract that outlines what product they are putting forth, how it’s unique, what problem it solves and any other differentiators.

Dec 12, 2019:  Winners chosen by audience vote and announced at the CDCA Defense Summit

WHERE:
For more information about the Defense Summit or to submit an abstract for the Innovation Spotlight email: summit@charlestondca.org                                                     

About Charleston Defense Contractors Association

Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) is an association of organizations and individual professionals dedicated to preserving, strengthening and continuing to grow the defense industry and its affiliated-organizations in Charleston, South Carolina, and its immediate surrounding region.  Since its inception in December 2002, the CDCA has worked to address issues facing the continually changing landscape that is Charleston’s defense industry presence and ensure that it continues to be a thriving, sustained business opportunity in Charleston, South Carolina. For further information, visit us at http://www.charlestondca.org/. 

Media Contact:
Michelle Van Jura, Intersect Communications
310.420.4062, michelle@intersectcom.com

Joy Capps, Intersect Communications
843.730.3857, joy@intersectcom.com

Internship Program Promotes Growth of STEM Jobs in Southeast

The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) Kicks off 14th Annual Internship Program funding approximately $400K for 40 companies and more than 94 interns in the last decade

Charleston,SC–June 5, 2019– The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA)—a non-profit defense advocacy group–today announced the start of its 14th Annual Internship Program. With the defense industry generating more than $10 Billion for the Charleston region and looming labor pool shortages on the rise—the CDCA internship program is a critical workforce development component designed to support companies with technology advancements coming out of the Southeast region.

“This program creates a pipeline of experienced candidates for future defense contractor openings in the Lowcountry,” said Stella Mercado, CDCA Board of Director and co-chair of government advocacy and internship programs and CEO/founder Mercom. “Historical data supports the notion that those who participate in our program get jobs in the local defense industry, with some going to work for those they intern with and even gain scholarships.”

The internship program is designed to cultivate interest and opportunities in the Charleston region defense industry while promoting the growth of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) initiatives. Each year the group selects 10-12 member companies willing to take on interns and places candidates with these organizations. This year’s company’s include:

• Atlas Technologies, inc.

• Fathom4, LLC

• KTM Solutions

• Life Cycle Engineering

• ManTech International Corporation

• Netizen Corporation

• SAIC

• Scientific Research Corporation

• Systems Technology Forum, Ltd

Launching with one intern in 2006, the program has grown consistently over the years to serve a total of 94 interns with paid internships. CDCA member companies who participate receive a $2,000 stipend to supplement the cost of labor for the interns. To date, these funds have totaled $348,000 and counting.

The CDCA’s first intern in 2006 went on to work in the defense industry and is now a CDCA board member. “Prior to the CDCA Internship Progarm, I had no idea what the defense industry was all about,” said Jimi Elderman, Director-Charleston Operations, Spry Methods. “This program opened my eyes to the possibilities while exposing me to my future. It is now an honor to work in a field that makes it easier for the warfighter.”

“We’ve added a new element to this year’s program by asking participating students to keep a video diary to showcase highlights from their experience,” states Mercado. “We look forward to sharing these insights to educate and encourage others considering the defense contractor industry.”

For more information please visit the CDCA website (https://www.charlestondca.org/education-1/#internships) or email us at publicrelations@charlestondca.org.

Media Contacts:

Michelle Van Jura, Intersect Communications
310.420.4062, michelle@intersectcom.com

 Joy Capps, Intersect Communications
843.730.3857, joy@intersectcom.com

Charleston Defense Contractors Association Grows Membership by 17 Percent and Names 2019 Board Members

Charleston, SC – Jan. 16, 2019  – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA)—a non-profit defense advocacy group– today announced its 2019 board members and officers and highlighted 2018 achievements around strengthening and advocating for the defense industry in the Southeast.

“Over this past year, the CDCA focused strategically on growing our national brand and impact on the defense discussion from Capitol Hill to the local region.  Our direct engagements on the Hill resulted in the addition of advantageous language related to Working Capital Fund organization authorities in the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act,” said Heather Walker, President CDCA. “Additionally, our 12th Annual defense summit brought national attention to the Southeast as a major hub of innovation for the industry at large.  The Southeastern region is driving innovation in the defense industry, which is leading to more jobs and local economic growth.”

Now at 336 members ranging from individuals to small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, the association is starting 2019 with a 17 percent increase in membership over last year. This growth is a testament to the power of the organization to further its mission to bring private and public industries together to have an impact in the defense community.

The CDCA is run by an experienced group of industry and community leaders, and 2019’s Board of Directors includes the following:

President:  Heather Walker, Principal, Booz Allen Hamilton
Vice President:  April Nadeau, Vice President, Sentar
Secretary:  Robin Burke, Sr. Sales Executive, Cask
Treasurer:  Brian Lindgren, Director, Bowhead

Board of Directors:

Becky Roberts, Technical Project Manager, Ward ENG Support Services
Beth Meredith, Director, KBRwyle
Gary Jaffe, Director, Atlas Technologies, Inc
Jimi Eldeman, Operations Director, Spry Methods
Kris Busch, Vice President, BAE Systems
Manuel Lovgren, Senior Vice President, Life Cycle Engineering
Maura Boselowitz, Director, Parsons Corporation
Red Hoover, Vice President, ManTech International Corporation
Stella Mercado, CEO and President, Mercom Corporation

 
The annual CDCA Defense Summit, which continues to bring thousands of attendees from all over the US, offered two new elements in the December 2018 agenda.  First, a “speed-networking” session provided an opportunity for  individual company meetings with government leaders. Additionally, the inaugural Innovation Spotlight gave CDCA members the opportunity to compete for the honor of “best-in-class” innovative solution.  This year’s award went to Netizen Corporation for their CyberSecure Dashboard.

Aside from the annual event, the CDCA emphasizes programs to help small businesses gain traction in the defense market by offering quarterly Small Business and Industry Outreach Initiative (SBIOI) events.  The full-day events provide informative presentations, networking and attract 400+ government and industry attendees. Additionally, the CDCA continues its dedication to supporting local STEM initiatives through professional development events and an annual internship program.  Over the course of the past year, five interns were placed with member companies.

Please visit the CDCA website (www.charlestondca.org/about) for more information or email us at info@charlestondca.org.

Media Contacts:
Michelle Van Jura, Intersect Communications
310.420.4062, michelle@intersectcom.com

Joy Capps, Intersect Communications
843.730.3857, joy@intersectcom.com

Winners of the Charleston Defense Contractors Association 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition Announced

Winners of the Charleston Defense Contractors Association 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition Announced
 
Nonprofit’s STEM-Related Contest Awards $10,000 in Prizes, Scholarships & Future Jobs
 
CHARLESTON, SC – December 8, 2017 – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA)— a non-profit advocacy group for the defense industry in the Southeast —today announced student winners of the 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition during the CDCA Defense Summit (formerly C5ISR Summit), which was held this week (Dec. 5-8) in Charleston, SC. Designed to drive innovation, the Summit brings together nearly 1,500 industry leaders in technology, defense, cybersecurity, to get business done, connect the right people and solve real business challenges when it comes to the Defense industry. 

In conjunction with the Summit, CDCA also holds a mobile app contest to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and careers, which allows students to creative unique applications that is able to run on either iOS phone or Android platforms to solve a challenge and be judged by sponsors and attendees at the event. Each year major sponsors and judges, including executives from companies including Microsoft, AT&T, Booz Allen, General Dynamics, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center – Atlantic (SSC Atlantic), and Vmware get a chance to reward students for their innovative apps. Contestants are judged on the scope of problem addressed by the application, ease-of-use, and positive user experience 

 “Microsoft continually seeks ways to stimulate creative thinking while encouraging students to engage in STEM-education opportunities,” said John Hearne, Microsoft Sr Account Executive for OPNAV N1 | Navy Southeast. “Investing in the development of tomorrow’s leaders is vitally important for us and others in today’s rapidly evolving technology-driven marketplace. This program also affords our companies the ability to identify and help foster the growth of these upcoming technology players.” 

SSC Atlantic and AT&T donated phones and tablets that were used in the competition to help judges review the apps and explore the various aspects of each contestants’ submission.

The program is open to middle school to graduate students throughout the Southeast. This year’s College/Post Graduate winners are:
1st: Pickup by Ben Muldrow, Tyler Newman and Julian Smith from College of Charleston
2nd: Mother’s Milk by Makayla Middleton from College of Charleston
3rd: Pill Reminder by Andrew Bissada from College of Charleston/Citadel
4th: Locked Messages by Matthew McCrackin from Charleston Southern University

This year’s High School winner is: 
Is My House Broke!? by Caleb Henry from Beaufort High School

This year’s Middle School winners are:
1st: Pet Love by Abigail Henry from Lady’s Island Middle School
2nd: Forest Navigator by Bryce Oliver from Lady’s Island Middle School
3rd: Social Media Smarts by LeAndria Dingle, Lamar Anthony Brown, Adaisha E. Cuffee, Daniel Martell Lockhart-Watkins, Sultan Simington, and Dawud Muhammad from Morningside Middle School

“The CDCA was created raise awareness of Charleston area defense contracting companies while driving innovation and collaboration between defense contractors and government,” said Heather Walker, Vice President, PR Chair, CDCA and Principal/Director for Booz Allen Hamilton. “It is encouraging to witness the level of innovative submissions by students who participated in the Mobile App contest this year. The high-level sponsors contributed to our success and ability to offer students significant exposure to potential employers as they pursue STEM careers. We look forward to watching the journey of winners from this year – and previous years – as they continue to grow and pursue defense, technology and cybersecurity careers.”  

Top Level Sponsors and Speakers, Including Peter Singer, Author of Ghost Fleet, Confirmed for Charleston Defense Contractors Association’s 11th Annual Defense Summit

Top Level Sponsors and Speakers, Including Peter Singer, Author of Ghost Fleet, Confirmed for Charleston Defense Contractors Association’s 11th Annual Defense Summit

Government and Industry Leaders in Technology to Speak at Largest Defense Summit in the Southeast
CHARLESTON, SC – August 24, 2017 – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA)—a non-profit advocacy group focused on the growth of defense and technology-related industries in Charleston and surrounding areas—today announced top-level speakers and sponsors for the 11th Annual CDCA Defense Summit. Held Dec. 5-8, 2017 at the Charleston Convention Center, the event draws nearly 1,500 defense leaders and industry experts to examine technology challenges and innovation. Conference attendees also discuss how to bring cutting-edge solutions to evolving defense mission needs, particularly in the areas of cybersecurity, communications and electronic and information warfare.
“Innovation in technology doesn't just increase our preparedness, it is a critical part of our nation’s defense planning,” said Peter Singer. “It is an honor to be part of a forum designed to discuss best practices and create strategies to improve our defense and cybersecurity capabilities. The information sharing that comes from bringing together government agencies and defense business partners is vital for our future.”
The 2017 CDCA Summit theme, “Powered by Technology, Energized by Community,” is intentionally designed to create an environment of collaboration while continuing to position South Carolina as a burgeoning major military and defense technology hub – affectionately called “Silicon Harbor.” Here is an early list of participants:
Keynote Speaker—21st-century warfare specialist Peter W. Singer and author of multiple award-winning books. His recent debut novel Ghost Fleet melds together nonfiction and fiction about the future of Tech and the Next World War. Named by the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery as one of top 100 innovators in the nation, Dr. Singer’s futurist expertise is certain to provide a compelling and interesting presentation.
Thought-Leaders—This year’s Summit speakers include a roster of government and industry leaders, including Rear Admiral Christian Becker, Commander Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command; Rear Admiral Carl P. Chebi, Program Executive Officer for Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence; Ms. Ruth Youngs Lew, SES, Program Executive Officer for Enterprise Information Systems; Dan Craytor, Chief Technology Officer, US Public Sector Services, Microsoft; Thomas A. Baer, Principal Cyber Security Strategist for Bear Cyber Technologies; Nigel LeBlanc, Founder/CEO, Cyber Warrior Network; Joseph Opacki, VP of threat research, analysis and intelligence, PhishLabs; and Captain Geno Paluso, Citadel Commandant of Cadets.
Sponsors—Market-leading sponsors include: Accelera, Accenture, Amazon Web Services, BCF Solutions, Booz Allen Hamilton, Brocade, CACI, CDW-G, Chugach Government Solutions, COLSA, Consortium Management Group, CSRA, General Dynamics Mission Systems, GRSi, AMSEC, iGov, Interclypse, KBRwyle, Leidos, M2 Technology, Main Sail, ManTech International Corporation, McAfee, Mercom, Modus 21, NETSCOUT, Network Runners, NOVA Power Solutions, Nutanix, Parsons, PwC, Life Cycle Engineering, Point Rock Solutions, Professional Solutions Delivered, Red Seal, Rollout Systems, Scientific Research Corporation, Sentar, Strategic Operational Solutions, Symantec, UEC Electronics, ViON Corporation, VMware, and Walker and Associates.
Sponsorship opportunities and exhibitor space are still available. Media registration is available free of charge. Learn more or register at http://summit.charlestondca.org/.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders
The CDCA focuses heavily on encouraging and supporting STEM and robotics programs. The organization’s annual Mobile App competition recently opened for participation. Past winners have received job offers, scholarships and cash awards.
The winners of this year’s 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition—open to middle school to college graduates throughout the Southeast—are announced during the Summit. Participating students receive exposure to future employers, scholarships and $10K in prizes. (Online Letters of Intent to participate in the contest are accepted now through Oct. 27, 2017. Submissions are due by Nov. 15, 2017.) 
The winners of the 2nd Annual Marine Corps Mobile App Challenge are also announced during the Summit.
 

The Clock is Ticking for STEM-Related Student Mobile App Competition with an Application Deadline of Oct. 27, 2017

The Clock is Ticking for STEM-Related Student Mobile App Competition with an Application Deadline of Oct. 27, 2017

Letters of Intent Offer Participants Chance to Win $10K in Prizes, Scholarships & Future Jobs with Defense Contractors

CHARLESTON, SC – Aug. 1, 2017 – With the goal of inspiring the next generation of STEM innovators, the Charleston Defense Contractors Association Mobile App Competition is seeking creative students to participate. With school back in session, now is the time for middle school to college students in the Southeast to throw their hat in the ring and beat the Oct. 27, 2017 deadline for filing their letter of intent.

“Participating in the mobile app competition is a good way to put what we are learning in the classroom to good use,” said Gerad Vanloo, 2016 Mobile App Competition Winner for Morehouse College. “The competition gives participating students an actual taste of what we’ll do in the workplace by creating something we wouldn’t have been otherwise inspired to do.”

This year the non-profit advocacy group—that focuses on the growth of defense and technology-related industries throughout the Lowcountry Region—is encouraging students to submit their Letters of Intent to participate in its 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition as soon as possible. The winners will be announced at the annual CDCA Defense Summit in December where more than 1,500 industry leaders are connected to app competitors.

Past winners have received scholarships and job offers from their exposure to potential employers. Winning participants also receive $10K in prizes and scholarships.

“This contest is designed to advocate future career aspirtations for students to participate in defense and technology fields,” said Josh Hatter, CDCA President. “The economic impact extends throughout South Carolina with the Charleston region contributing $10.6 billion to the overall $24.1 billion annual impact for the state.”

WHAT: CDCA’s 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition 

CRITERIA: Judges review the scope of problem addressed by the application, ease-of-use, and positive user experience. 

Participants are encouraged to make applications intuitive. Additional materials may be submitted to explain the application’s use. Judges’ decisions are final.

WHEN: Oct 27, 2017:  Letter of Intent submission deadline here 

Nov 15, 2017:  App submission deadline

Dec 6, 2017:  Winners announced at the CDCA Defense Summit 

WHERE: For more information email: AppChallenge@charlestondca.org

WHO: Open to individuals or teams of Middle, High School, and full-time, undergraduate and graduate college students

Charleston Defense Contractors Association Announces Launch of 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition

Charleston Defense Contractors Association Announces Launch of 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition

Defense Nonprofit Drives STEM-Related Contest that Leads Participating Students to $10K in Prizes, Scholarships & Future Jobs

CHARLESTON, SC – June 29, 2017 – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA), a nonprofit focused on the preservation and growth of the defense and technology related industries in the Charleston and Lowcountry regions, today announced that it is now accepting submissions for its 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition.  The contest is open to middle school to college students throughout the Southeast. A recent economic report from Darla Moore School of Business at University of South Carolina (USC) revealed that Charleston is one of the leading defense and technology hubs in the U.S., contributing $10.6 billion to the overall $24.1 billion annual economic impact for South Carolina. 

Mobile App Competition winners are announced during the CDCA Defense Summit (Formerly C5ISR Summit). This year’s annual event is scheduled for Dec. 5-8, 2017 in Charleston, SC. The conference brings together more than 1,500 industry leaders in technology, defense, health care and other organizations focused on driving innovation in the defense industry.  The event connects app competitors to companies participating in the Summit. In turn, past winners have received scholarships and job offers from their exposure to potential employers. 

“The contest was a great experience for me,” said last year’s winner, DeJean Dunbar of Charleston Southern University.  “By participating I acquired valuable skills in building an app to solve a business challenge from the ground up. I also received insights into what companies are looking for in future employees. As a result of this contest, I found a passion for technology, my future career path and job interviews.”

WHAT: CDCA’s 7th Annual Student Mobile App Competition

Judging criteria reviews the scope of problem addressed by the application, ease-of-use, and positive user experience. Applicants are encouraged to make applications intuitive. Additional materials may be submitted to explain the application’s use. Judges’ decisions are final.

WHEN: Oct 27, 2017:  Deadline for Letter of Intent 

Online submissions can be submitted on the CDCA website HERE. 

Nov 15, 2017, 11:59pm EST:  Deadline for submitting the app and any supporting materials

Dec 6, 2017:  Winners announced at the CDCA Defense Summit

WHERE: For more information email: AppChallenge@charlestondca.org

WHO: The competition is open to individuals or teams of Middle, High School, and full-time, undergraduate and graduate college students.

RULES & REGULATIONS: Full list of terms and conditions can be found here.

Charleston Defense Contractors Association Announces 6th Annual Student Mobile App and Hack Warz Competition Winners

CDCA Awards $10,000 in Prizes and Scholarships

CHARLESTON, SC – December 9, 2016 – The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA), a non-profit advocacy group for the defense industry in the Charleston metro area, today announced the winners of its 6th Annual Student Mobile App Competition at the organizations 10th annual C5ISR Summit, which set a record in attendance of more than 1300 defense industry professionals and leading technology organizations, which sponsored the show. The focus of the Mobile App Competition was to stimulate creative thinking and promote the entrepreneurial spirit while offering development support, marketing expertise, mentorship, and guidance for the participating students. The CDCA Mobile App Competition was open for participation to all Middle School, High School and full-time, undergraduate and graduate college students and focused on three different target areas – safety, quality of life and financial. The competition was sponsored by Microsoft.

This year’s college student winners are:

1st Place – DeJean Dunbar, Charleston Southern University, ‘Tag It’ project
2nd Place – John Jones Jr., Chattanooga State Community College, ‘Insure Me’ project
3rd Place – Gerald Vanloo, Morehouse College, ‘Protect My House’ project

This year’s middle school student winners are:

1st Place – Caleb Henry, Ladys Island Middle School, ‘Bus Checker’ project
2nd Place – Autumn Greenleaf, Westview Middle School, ‘GPS Alert & Lock’ project

“For 14 years, the CDCA has been dedicated to driving and preserving the defense industry influence and presence in Charleston,” said Joshua Hatter, Vice President, PR Chair, CDCA and senior manager of marketing and business development for General Dynamics. “We had the toughest competition we’ve ever had and are very pleased with the diversity and innovation of the Mobile App entries this year. This competition is a great way for students to foster their creativity and it also provides a platform for many to find and follow career paths. As in year’s past, we’re hopeful that this year’s winners will be offered jobs and scholarships because of the exposure they gained from having their apps featured at the C5ISR summit in Charleston.”  

The CDCA also held a Hack Warz competition at the C5ISR summit this week, where teams of government and industry veterans battled against each other in a capture the flag type of event and earned tokens (flags) based on hacking into several compromised systems. Tokens were valued by difficulty and skill set required. This year’s winners include:

Top 3 Individuals (handle, name, team, company, points):

slimm609 – Brian Davis – badgerdeathmode - “badgerdeathmode”
_hap – Bryan Rhodes – 0commas - Securifera
b0yd – Ryan Wincey – 0commas – Securifera

Top 3 Teams (team name, company, points):

Badgerdeathmode – CACI
0commas – Securifera
Parsons –  Parsons Security