Message From Our Vice President
Dr. Diane Diaz
As Vice President of Women in Defense Central Florida Chapter, I can confidently say that one of the greatest strengths of our chapter is the welcoming and supportive community we have built. WID has connected me with an incredible network of professional women who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of our industry. Those relationships have enriched my life both professionally and personally, providing mentorship, encouragement, collaboration, and lasting friendships.
Whether you are new to the defense community or a seasoned professional, there is a place for you here. I encourage anyone seeking meaningful connections, professional growth, and genuine camaraderie to become an official WID member. Together, we can continue to strengthen our chapter by inviting others to join us and experience the same sense of belonging that makes Women in Defense Central Florida so special.
Spotlights
I/ITSEC PAPER REVIEW
JULY 27, 2026
Scottsdale, Arizona
Members of the Women in Defense Central Florida Board of Directors proudly contributed to the advancement of the defense and training community by serving as volunteer paper reviewers for the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC). This important responsibility helps ensure the conference showcases innovative, high-quality technical papers that advance military training, modeling, simulation, and human performance.
We are especially proud that so many of our board members dedicate their expertise to this prestigious review process. This year’s participants included:
Kristi Evans (President) – Human Performance Committee Member
Dr. Diane Diaz (Vice President) – Training Committee Member
Claire Hughes (Treasurer) – Simulation Committee Deputy Chair
Candace Croughwell (Secretary) – Policy, Standard Management & Acquisition Committee Member
Katie Eastburn (Membership Director) – Emerging Concepts Committee Member
Dr. Christina Bowens (Special Projects Director) – Training Committee Chair
Debbie Berry (Advisor) – Council of Chairs Member
Their service reflects WID Central Florida’s commitment to professional excellence, thought leadership, and supporting the development of cutting-edge solutions that strengthen our nation’s defense capabilities. We are grateful for their continued dedication and for representing our chapter within the I/ITSEC community.
Gains in the Education of Math and Science (GEMS)
June 17-18, 2026
WID Central Florida believes in practicing leadership early and mentoring leaders through workforce development and community support. WID CFL was able to help expand student and teacher engagement and workforce skills through Gains in the Education of Math and Science (GEMS) Central Florida, a Team Orlando summer STEAM academy for rising 6th–11th graders, near‑peer mentors, and professional educators. GEMS participants engage in 25 hours of applied STEAM workforce practice, while high‑school and college mentors participate in 6–8‑week paid internships that develop leadership, communication, and technical skills. The 2026 GEMS theme, “Outer Space in Our Everyday Lives,” immerses students in the technologies that power modern society—semiconductors, satellites, robotics, drones, and cybersecurity—while connecting learning to real‑world applications across agriculture, healthcare, transportation, energy, and defense. Weekly field experiences at Kennedy Space Center’s International Academy reinforce the link between Central Florida’s MS&T ecosystem and the broader space industry. WID CFL provided scholarship funding and showed up with huge smiles and miles of experience to support 52 HS leaders in training (campers), 12 HS and College students in leadership practice (NPM) and 8 professional educators leading the future through a week of serious play designed to build strong foundations in leadership.
Sponsor Spotlight:
The NAtional Center For Simulation
The National Center for Simulation (NCS) is a not-for-profit trade association with government, academic, and industry members operating as an open consortium. The vision of NCS is to be the internationally recognized leader in promoting, protecting, and growing the modeling, simulation, and training (MS&T) community.
Check Out Additional Updates on Our Social Media
2026 UPcoming Events
Event Registration
Thank you message to Our Sponsors
We extend our sincere appreciation to the sponsors whose generosity and partnership strengthen the mission of Women in Defense Central Florida Chapter. Your support empowers our programs, fuels scholarship opportunities, and helps us create meaningful connections across the defense, modeling & simulation, and technology community. Because of your commitment, we are able to invest in future STEM leaders, elevate individuals across our industry, and continue delivering impactful events throughout the year. Thank you for standing with us and helping advance a stronger, more inclusive future for Central Florida’s defense workforce.
Closing Message
Thank you for spending time with us in this month’s newsletter and for being part of a community that continues to show up with purpose, generosity, and enthusiasm. July was a month filled with connection, collaboration, and meaningful progress toward empowering the next generation of STEM leaders and none of it would be possible without the support of our members, volunteers, and dedicated sponsors. As we turn the page to June, we’re excited to carry this momentum forward with new opportunities to engage, learn, and strengthen the network that makes Women In Defense Central Florida such a powerful force in our community. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing this journey together.
About Women in Defense
Women In Defense (WID) is a national organization dedicated to engaging, cultivating, and advancing women across all sectors of national security. As an affiliate of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), WID provides a powerful platform for professional development, mentorship, and collaboration among individuals working in defense, intelligence, homeland security, and related fields. Through its nationwide network of chapters, WID supports career growth, fosters leadership opportunities, and champions initiatives that strengthen the defense workforce. The organization also plays a vital role in promoting education and STEM advancement, helping prepare the next generation of professionals who will contribute to our nation’s security and technological innovation.
About Our Chapter
Women In Defense – Central Florida Chapter (WID CFL) is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to supporting women and men across Central Florida who contribute to national defense and security. Established in 2009, the chapter strengthens and influences the regional defense community by inspiring individuals, cultivating leadership, and fostering meaningful professional relationships. Through strategic networking, educational programs, and community engagement, WID CFL provides members with opportunities for career development, collaboration, and industry connection. The chapter also champions the next generation through its STEM scholarship program, encouraging students across Florida to pursue careers in defense, national security, and related technical fields.
Our Mission
Women In Defense – Central Florida Chapter is committed to strengthening and advancing the defense community by empowering individuals, supporting professional growth, and fostering meaningful connections across industry, government, and academia. Our mission is to create opportunities for leadership development, promote education through STEM scholarships, and cultivate a collaborative network that reflects the innovation and diversity of Central Florida’s defense ecosystem. Through programs, partnerships, and community engagement, WID CFL works to inspire current and future leaders who contribute to our nation’s security and technological advancement.
Become A Member
The momentum is building—and the Chapter Champions Challenge is still on!
There’s still time to be part of something impactful. Join the Women In Defense – Central Florida Chapter and connect with a powerful network of professionals dedicated to growth, leadership, and advancing national security.
Whether you’re expanding your career or looking to give back through mentorship and community, WID is the place to be. Don’t miss your chance to get involved.
Visit WomenInDefense.net/Join and use code WIDCFL to join today.
Under membership information when joining WID, under were you referred? Yes, by a WID Chapter and enter referral code WIDCFL.
Let’s keep the energy going and continue strengthening our community—together.
Are you a student looking to get connected with a professional organization? WID now offers student memberships for $25/year.
Under membership information when joining WID, under were you referred?
Yes, by a WID Chapter and enter referral code WIDCFL.