The Armed Forces MRG put on a successful event at DCD > Connect | Virginia on November 7th. EdgeConnex graciously sponsored the event and DCD Academy participated as the education partner. The room was filled with veterans, military spouses, active duty, and even 2 ROTC cadets who had already completed DC 101 training.
We even had some VOSBs (Veteran Owned Small Business) attend who were interested in lessons learned as a veteran-owned businesses which is a new slant to the community but a welcomed addition. On site interviews were conducted and a new iMasons members were gained. Lee Kirby presented on the Salute and IM Armed Forces strategic relationship and the industry overall and the panel discussion was composed of leaders in the military community:
- The Honorable Paul Lawrence, 7th Under Secretary for Veterans Benefits and Army Veteran
- Tin Witt, Director, Solutions Architect at EdgeConneX and Military Spouse
- Lieutenant General (R) Dash Jamieson and Air Force Veteran
- 12th SMA (R) Jack Tilley, Chairman of American Freedom Foundation and Host of Your Next Mission®
Events
Upcoming opportunities for Armed Forces MRG include PTC held each year on the island of Oahu. Like last year this event will be held at the Halekulani and will be a mixed event for retiring active duty and veteran supporters. For the latest information, view the event page here.
Transition Program
Tony Grayson has been leading an effort with the US Navy senior leaders to develop a program to help Sailors transfer to the technology sector, enhance the understanding among tech industry executives of the unique skills and capabilities that Sailors bring to the table (i.e. riding ships and subs), and streamline pathways for professionals in the technology sector to integrate into Department of Defense roles, civilian service positions, and reserve units.
Once we establish a successful program model, we plan to broaden this initiative to include other military services and extend the program’s reach internationally. The potential impact of this is very exciting and you will be hearing more about this in the future.
Tony Grayson will be transitioning to Chair Emeritus as Alison Marlow assumes the role of US Chair effective 1 Jan 2024. Tony will continue to be active and pursue US Navy programs as he has been to increase awareness and help drive more talent to our industry working closely with our team.
Anyone in the US interested in helping can contact Alison Marlow (alison.marlow@se.com).
Anyone in the UK interested in helping can contact Mike Eytle (mikeeytle@microsoft.com).
Anyone interested in starting a group in another country can contact Lee Kirby (lee.kirby@saluteinc.com).