Air Force Institute of Technology attends annual AETC Symposium

  • Published
  • By Bill Hancock
  • 88ABW/PA
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Air Force Institute of Technology personnel exhibited and presented papers at the Air Education and Training Command Symposium in San Antonio, Texas, on 14-15 Jan 2010. By all measures, AFIT considered the event a success. Brig Gen Walter D. Givhan, AFIT Commandant, stated "This is not just a show-and-tell, but rather an intellectual exercise, a grand opportunity to benefit from and to contribute in an invaluable exchange of information. We are grateful for the chance to attend and are already looking towards next year with new ideas to contribute and increase AFIT's presence at this exciting event."

The opening session was kicked off by Gen Stephen Lorenz, Commander, Air Education and Training Command, announcing this year's symposium theme: "Develop America's Airmen Today...for Tomorrow."

The abundant event schedule provided the approximately 3200 attendees many opportunities to associate and dialogue on education and training topics with leaders, educators, and partners within AETC, the Air Force, and private industry. The exhibit hall featured more than 90 civilian and military exhibitors showcasing cutting edge ideas and technologies. AFIT exhibited the many programs and opportunities available within its Graduate School of Engineering and Management and highlighted the recent successes of its Centers of Research, which includes, Center for Cyberspace Research, Center for MASINT Studies and Research, Advanced Navigation Technology Center, Center for Directed Energy, and Center for Operational Analysis.

Graduate School Dean Dr. Marlin Thomas said, "This is a fantastic opportunity for us to network and understand the needs and requirements of our MAJCOM, Air Force, and DoD customers." Many attendees stopped by and spoke with the AFIT exhibitors asking a wide range of questions, from advanced graduate education opportunities, to ideas on distance learning, to opportunities for enlisted in advanced education.

Symposium highlights included addresses by senior Air Force leadership such as Gen (ret) Lloyd "Fig" Newton and Gen Raymond Johns, Jr., Commander, Air Mobility Command; a Medal of Honor recipient panel; and a keynote address by Gen Norton A. Schwartz, USAF Chief of Staff.