International intelligence conference coming to UNG

The University of North Georgia (UNG) will host the International Association for Intelligence Education (IAFIE) Annual Global Conference from June 1-3, 2026. This conference is open to all who are interested in intelligence studies, global security, cyber education, international relations, psychology, criminal justice, and history.

The conference theme will be "The Convergence of Artificial Intelligence, Cyber, and Intelligence on Global Security Interests."

IAFIE advances research, knowledge and professional development in intelligence education, which aligns with UNG's strategic big bet to get in the national security game. This conference also builds on UNG's academic programs in a multitude of fields.

Dr. Edward Mienie, professor and executive director of strategic and security studies and partnerships, said the prestigious conference provides on-campus opportunities for the UNG community to reach an international audience. He also serves as the conference program chair.

"We are putting a focus on UNG as a trusted partner in ensuring quality intelligence education that remains current. We want to continue to grow our network," Mienie said. "It's an opportunity for UNG students, alumni, faculty, and staff to come and rub shoulders with international educators and practitioners in this field."

The conference tracks are:

• Role of AI in National Security

• Cyber Threats to National Security

• Nexus of Cyber and AI in Warfare and International Security

• Impact of Technology on Homeland Security and Criminal Investigations

• Impact on Intel Education

• Student Track

Cadet Hailey Thomas, a senior from Seville, Florida, pursuing a degree in strategic and security studies with a concentration in intelligence and a minor in Russian, serves as president of UNG's IAFIE chapter. She is grateful to be able to help organize the student track of the conference. Mienie serves as the IAFIE student chapter faculty sponsor.

"The conference gives students a chance to be published researchers before even entering the field. A diverse group of professionals will be picking apart your research. It's a great opportunity for students," Thomas said. "It's also a great way to network and ask practical questions to people working in the field."

IAFIE was formed in June 2004, the result of a gathering of 60-plus intelligence studies trainers and educators at the sixth annual International Colloquium on Intelligence at Mercyhurst College in Erie, Pennsylvania. This group, from various intelligence disciplines including national security, competitive intelligence and law enforcement, recognized the need for a professional association that would span their diverse disciplines and provide a catalyst and resources for their development and that of intelligence studies.