Students start Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association chapter

University of North Georgia (UNG) students have launched a chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) on UNG's Dahlonega Campus. It is one of 18 student chapters nationally and one of only two in Georgia.  

Chandler Harris, a junior cadet from Dallas, Georgia, pursuing a degree in cybersecurity, is the president and founder of UNG's student chapter.

"I would not be where I am without the juniors and seniors who have poured their knowledge into me," Harris said. "I want to give back by mentoring and teaching younger cadets and other students about cybersecurity and intelligence."

Most of the UNG group's 24 members are juniors and seniors, and the club aims to attract more freshmen and sophomores.

The club is in the process of partnering with AFCEA's Atlanta chapter to set up one-on-one mentorships between upperclassmen in the UNG club and industry professionals.

Lt. Gen. Stephen Fogarty, a 1983 graduate of UNG and commanding general of U.S. Army Cyber Command, was one of the club's recent guest speakers. The group also gives members opportunities to grow their public speaking skills.

Retired Lt. Col. Heath Williams, director of federal liaison and military education coordinator, is the group's faculty adviser. Cadets and civilian students interested in joining can email Williams at heath.williams@ung.edu.

"AFCEA is a great networking organization," Williams said.