NATIONAL HARBOR, Maryland, Sept. 22-24, 2025—Cadets from AFROTC, Detachment 880 attend the 2025 Air, Space, and Cyber Conference at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD.

Each year, the Air and Space Forces Association (AFA) hosts the prestigious Air, Space, and Cyber Conference, coinciding with the Air Force Birthday. This event brings together military leaders, industry experts, and innovators to discuss the current state of the Air and Space Forces, future goals, and emerging technologies that will shape the services for years to come.

This year, a distinguished group of cadets from Virginia Military Institute's Air Force detachment had the honor of attending the conference.

For these cadets, the conference was more than just a series of panels; it was an invaluable learning and networking experience. The sessions were impactful and highly relevant to their current positions within AFROTC, offering insights into leadership, innovation, and the future direction of the Air and Space Forces. The event fostered meaningful discussions and provided practical knowledge that cadets could bring back to their own detachments.

During the formal panels, Cadets had the opportunity to hear profound speeches from distinguished guests such as the honorable Troy Meink, Gen. David Allvin, Brig. Gen. Houston Cantwell, and many more well-informed and established experts in the air and space career field.
Beyond the formal panels, the expo hall buzzed with activity. Cadets engaged with representatives from various organizations, including AAR, Acclient, Adacel Systems, ADS Inc., and many more. Attendees were also allowed to explore cutting-edge technology displays and connect with businesses interested in supporting future activities. One of the most significant aspects of the conference was the opportunity to network with other AFROTC units from across the nation. These interactions allowed cadets to exchange ideas and strategies, strengthening their own programs while contributing to the broader AFROTC community.

Davis T. Clanton, one of the attending cadets, reflected on the experience: "I was extremely grateful to have the opportunity to attend the AFA conference in Washington, DC this year. The panels were impactful, energetic, and relevant to where I stand in my AFROTC career today, so I thought they were of great value. Besides the panels, there was so much to learn and do in the rest of the conference, whether it was networking with people in booths staged in the expo hall, conversing with other AFROTC units from across the nation, or finding local-to-VMI businesses that were interested in future activities. More than anything, this experience was a huge networking opportunity. Utilizing the fact that major AFROTC detachments were there was something I wish I had driven into the second I walked in the door. I found that through talking to many of these cadets, I found ways that we could implement their strategies into our detachment, or they found ways they could implement ours inversely. I made many new friends during this trip, some of whom I talk to regularly. I got to chat with some of Arnold Air Society's leadership again, which was impactful as we discovered our ability to finally wear our AAS crests on our uniform! Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience; spending time with friends from VMI, making new contacts, and hearing from critically important speakers made this trip memorable. I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity and will certainly utilize future opportunities to the fullest of my ability."

The AFA conference continues to serve as a vital forum for professional development, collaboration, and inspiration for the next generation of Air and Space Force leaders. For these cadets, the experience not only broadened their perspectives but also strengthened their commitment to service and excellence.

Cadet Elisha K. Williams ‘27 
Air Force ROTC Detachment 880
Photos courtesy of VMI Air Force ROTC