Hackathon hosted by AFCENT Command Technology Data Office energizes innovation in U.S. Air Forces Central

The Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central)’s Command Technology Data Office (CTDO) recently hosted a groundbreaking Hack-a-thon at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina. The event, which took place from April 29 to May 3, 2024, aimed to address complex command and control solutions relevant to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility.

With 23 participants, including Airmen and academic partners from institutions like George Mason University and industry collaborators such as Booz Allen Hamilton, the Hack-a-thon focused on four strategic areas: Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), aircraft movements, Global Force Management (GFM), and optimization of streaming command and control data.

Master Sgt. Darren Heller, CTDO superintendent, highlighted the importance of the event in solving unique problem sets that impact not only the command but also the Department of the Air Force and coalition partners. Participants were judged on their ability to assess problem sets, collect data, and develop project management plans for implementing solutions.

The Hack-a-thon aligns with Lt. Gen. France’s vision for the command, emphasizing the delivery of dominant coalition combat power and integrated command and control. Chief Master Sgt. Katherine Grabham, AFCENT Command Chief, emphasized the importance of improving processes and rapidly disseminating information to partners.

Overall, the event furthered AFCENT’s efforts to support CENTCOM’s data and digitalization transformation, establishing a foundation of data literacy and innovation. The CTDO’s focus on modernizing the joint force and providing resources for real-world problem solving showcases their commitment to shaping a data-driven headquarters.