Common Threads Huntsville: Space, Defense, and Strategic Challenges

April 17 to 18, 2024 Huntsville, Alabama

This event recap is courtesy of Davidson.

Nearly 200 professionals from the Huntsville region attended the April 17-18, Common Threads Huntsville: Space, Defense, and Strategic Challenges program. The Apr. 17 unclassified event kicked off with Career Conversations, an innovative career fair and networking session preceding the Welcome Reception. Attendees had the opportunity to network and gain career advice from top employers in both the public and private sectors.

The Welcome Reception followed, allowing ample time for networking and relationship building. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle kicked off the program with enthusiastic remarks, emphasizing the city's critical role in space and missile defense and in developing future national security leaders. Ms. Janice Glover-Jones, Director for Mission Services, Defense Intelligence Agency, then joined INSA President Suzanne Wilson Heckenberg, for a fireside chat.

Ms. Glover-Jones discussed her role overseeing support offices crucial for DIA's mission of providing foundational military intelligence to warfighters and national decision-makers. She highlighted efforts to enhance mission capabilities and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of synergy among partners. Recruitment and retention strategies were also key topics, including improving brand visibility, partnering with educational institutions, and diversifying talent pools. Ms. Glover-Jones stressed the agency's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity, drawing from her experience as Chief Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Officer at DIA.

Addressing the student audience, Ms. Glover-Jones offered advice to junior professionals and those considering careers in national security: "Don’t be afraid to take the road less traveled and keep an open mind." Her insights not only supported professional growth but also inspired the next generation of leaders in the field.

The following morning a classified breakfast and panel discussion took place, focused on space and counterspace issues.