2025 AFTAC WiSE 5-7 MAR
The Air Force Technical Applications Center’s (AFTAC) Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) Symposium is a diversity initiative that began in 2013. WiSE promoted the value that diversity and inclusivity bring to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) workforce. The symposium has grown over the years to incorporate an increasingly diverse cross-section of professionals, students, and community members.
The symposium features inspirational academic, industry, U.S. Government, Department of Defense, and private organization speakers from across the nation. Join WIDSC and AFTAC for engaging discussion panels, professional networking, STEM demonstrations, student activities, and more! For more information and to register, visit https://www.wiseusaf.com/.
Women In Defense Space Coast Chapter Celebrates Success of Empower & Elevate Event, Welcoming New Leaders and Community Partners
The Women In Defense Space Coast Chapter (WIDSC) gathered on October 29th at the Courtyard Marriott in Cocoa Beach for the highly anticipated Empower & Elevate event, bringing together local professionals, inspiring speakers, and key community partners dedicated to learning, networking, and growth. The event delivered powerful insights, unveiled new chapter leadership, and strengthened the mission to empower women in defense.
“The Empower & Elevate event is a cornerstone of our commitment to fostering growth and supporting the aspirations of professionals on the Space Coast,” said Sirena Ozzello, WIDSC President. “It provides a forum for networking, learning, and sharing, which is critical to such a dynamic industry. We’re excited to see so many talented professionals come together to strengthen our community and further the mission of diversity in defense.”
The event’s keynote speaker, Dr. Chad Lau, captivated attendees using magic and stagecraft. Unique and fun, his ‘Tricks of the Trade’ professional development presentation provided invaluable strategies for career advancement, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal skills in professional settings.
David Bragg, PMP, CISSP, ITIL v3 Expert, SMSP, facilitated the official installation of the chapter’s incoming 2024-2025 Board of Directors, marking a momentous step forward for the organization. This transition celebrates fresh perspectives and strengthens WIDSC’s commitment to supporting women in the defense industry.
In recognition of the new Board of Directors, WIDSC welcomed: Sirena Ozzello, President; Jennifer Kennedy-Ness, Vice President; Catherine Wright, Secretary; Kathy Emerson, Treasurer; David Jackson, Membership; Leslie Tibbets, Awards & Recognition; Tina Christensen, Historian; Gail Hart, Communications; Elizabeth Huy, Past President.
The program also recognized past presidents, Susie Glasgow, Sandy Pfrimmer, and Chapter Founder, Karen J. Gregory. Gregory provided special remarks highlighting the chapter’s ongoing mission to build a more inclusive, diverse defense community and reaffirmed WIDSC’s dedication to professional development, leadership, and unity within the Space Coast defense community.
In addition, WIDSC welcomed community partners Stephanie Robinson from CareerSource Brevard, Volusia, Flagler, Teresa Moon from Parabilis, and Erin Minta from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. These partners joined the celebration, sharing valuable resources to support WIDSC’s mission and enhance the value offered to members.
WIDSC Members Proudly Support Making Strides for Breast Cancer 2024
Fall is coming, it’s getting cooler outside, and it is the perfect time to take a walk. Please consider joining WIDSC Members and participate in the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event happening this October 26th at the Avenue Viera. Together we can raise money and awareness to save lives from breast cancer.
We have all been affected by breast cancer in one way or another, whether you are a survivor, a caregiver or a friend lending support for someone who has suffered. This is our chance to help make a difference, so please join our team – We always have a great time!
Even if you can’t join the team, please consider supporting us with a donation to help reach our goal just click the link or flyer below.
Women In Defense Space Coast Names 2024 STEM Education Innovator Award Recipients and Awards $17K in STEM Scholarships to Space Coast Students
The Women in Defense Space Coast Chapter (WIDSC) recently announced the winners of its 2024 STEM Education Innovator Awards and the recipients of its 2024 STEM scholarships on Thursday, June 20, at the Courtyard by Marriott Cocoa Beach. These accolades underscore WID’s commitment to foster STEM educational opportunities and careers and to promote the role of women in national defense and security.
The Education Innovator Award recipients included:
• Dr. Theresa E. Watson, Deputy Chief Scientist of the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTAC) at Patrick Space Force Base, as the STEM Leadership Star of the Year for serving as champion for the Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) conference – a two-day event where local students take part in STEM activities and learn about STEM opportunities.
• Chris Larsen, co-founder of Larsen Motorsports, as the STEM Mentor of the Year for turning a passion for high-speed racing into a unique and powerful educational platform while mentoring over 250 students during the past 20 years.
• Colleen Anderson, Surfside Elementary, as the STEM Elementary Educator of the Year for her dynamic teaching methods and her role in coordinating science fairs that connect students with STEM professionals.
• Rebecca Allen, Palm Bay Magnet High School, as the STEM High School Educator of the Year for her dedication to expanding student access to industry expertise and resources.
In addition to recognizing these distinguished educators and leaders, WIDSC awarded $17K in scholarships ranging from $1250 to $500 for exemplary students pursuing STEM disciplines.
The scholarship winners included:
• Abigail Shephard, Florida Atlantic University, BS/MD Cellular Neuroscience/Mathematics
• Aki Densmore, Florida Tech, Chemical Engineering, Minor in Aerospace
• Alexa Mason, Florida Tech, Physics
• Ann Hough, University of Florida, Pharmacy
• Cassandra Stanish, Florida Tech, Mechanical Engineering, Minor in Sustainability
• Christina Souvannala, University of Illinois, Master of Library/Information Science
• Deztynee Bryan, Florida Tech, Meteorology
• Elizabeth Eskildsen, Eastern Florida State College, Business Sustainability, Minor -Environmental Science
• Ella Benson, Virginia Tech, Architecture
• Emily Prins, University of Florida, Biochemistry
• Erin Kohler, University of Florida, Microbiology and Cell Science
• Gianna Fernandez, University of Florida, Computer Engineering
• Grace Peters, University of Florida, Mechanical Engineering
• Jayda Holman, University of Miami, Environmental Engineering
• Jody Junek, University of Florida, Biomedical Engineering
• Katherine Wade, Florida Tech, Ocean Engineering
• Kathryn Burgess, Florida State University, Nursing, Minor in Business
• Lillian Paquette, University of Florida, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
• Madeline Biggs, Florida State University, Mechanical Engineering, Minor in Computer Science
• Mallory Jeancake, Samford University, Nursing
• Marisa Ricks, University of Florida, Preprofessional Biology, Minor Org. Leadership
• Ryleigh Renedina, University of Florida, Biomedical Engineering. Minor in Animal Science
WIDSC also announced the recipient of the 2024 joint WIDSC – AFTAC WiSE scholarship.
• Melissa McGuire, Rollins College, Executive MBA
Elizabeth Huy, President of the Space Coast Women in Defense, commented, “This year’s awards and scholarships highlight the incredible talent and dedication within our community. Our goal is not only to recognize excellence but also to inspire the next generation of women to explore STEM fields and consider careers in national defense. ”
Since its inception in 2013, WIDSC has awarded $94,000 in scholarships to women in the community who have pursued studies to advance their careers in science, technology, engineering and math.
If you would like more information about WIDSC STEM scholarships and awards, please contact Leslie Tibbetts at STEM@WIDSC.org or 321-258-8504.
