What is a YAC?
The Young AFCEAns (also fondly known as YACs) is our 40 and under set of of young professionals who are trying to have an impact in our Central Maryland Chapter. Beth Sheehy, who is leading our YACS, has stirred up our local population of YACs and is energized and waiting to hear from you! Not only do they network with fellow professionals from other companies, government and the military, they also make an impact in the local community. The YACs are active in many Chapter events including our annual fundraisers, such as the golf tournaments, the Bull Roast and Silent Auction, and the Valentine’s Gala. The YACs work with our Chapter’s Scientific Education Committee, supporting local schools by judging Science Fairs, mentoring students, supporting robotics teams and competitions, and participating in Adopt-a-School activities.

What does AFCEA offer to a young professional?
AFCEA was established to provide "an ethical forum in which government and industry leaders and decision-makers can meet to exchange ideas and concepts, discuss current problems and solutions and identify future requirements in the technical disciplines of communications, electronics, intelligence and information systems. The AFCEA forum encourages and enhances open dialogue essential to national and international cooperation and security".

Where does this entire dialog happen?
This dialog happens at ALL AFCEA-sponsored events. All AFCEA events are attended by leaders in Government and industry. In addition, most AFCEA events have invited speakers which provide insight to the focus of the highest levels of Government. For example, the Mid-Atlantic Intelligence Symposium was attended by both the Director of NSA and the Director of DISA. These types of speakers provide you the knowledge to do your job with a better understanding of the "big picture."

This type of knowledge-base can help you do your job better and more in line with the focus of the organizations you serve. You will be more valuable in your current job, and, by making contact with industry and government leaders, you’ll know where to turn when you need information about particular topics.