Hume Seminar Series: Forging the Future: VICEROY’s Mission to Establish Deterrence and Enhance Readiness in Defense

About the Event

This seminar will delve into how VICEROY is enhancing national security in the cyber and electromagnetic spectrum, uniquely preparing students to bolster our defense capabilities by creating vital opportunities that directly contribute to reestablishing deterrence against adversaries and enhancing military readiness. In an era where adversaries increasingly turn to asymmetric tactics, including using cyberweapons to undermine our intellectual property, critical infrastructure, and democratic processes, the need for a ready and resilient workforce is paramount. 

Mr. Maciag will outline the severe cybersecurity threats we currently face, and the proactive posture adopted by our government to counter these threats, with a specific focus on National and Department of Defense strategies. Moreover, he will highlight the pivotal role of VICEROY's collaboration with academia and industry. Partnerships that are instrumental in scouting, nurturing, and retaining the brightest minds dedicated to national cybersecurity. Together, we will explore how VICEROY equips students with cutting-edge skills while actively involving them in critical research that reinforces our national defense against complex cyber threats, ensuring that the United States remains a step ahead globally.

About the Speaker

Chester "CJ" Maciag, Director for Cyber Science, Technology Research, and Academic Outreach in the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E)

Within OUSD R&E, he leads three impactful academic enhancement programs in cyber and spectrum disciplines designed to close DoD talent gaps and innovative S&T capability needs. Mr. Maciag has a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology, an M.S. in Financial Crimes Management from Utica University, and an M.S. in Military and Strategic Leadership from Air University.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Sarah Downer at humecenter@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.