Photo Feature: Space & Cyber Summit

The Space & Cyber Summit: Crossroads of Space and Cybersecurity, presented by the UCCS College of Business and sponsored by Deloitte, brought together experts and community members to explore developments in the space and cybersecurity sectors. Held at the Ent Center for the Arts, the event was open to UCCS students, faculty, staff, and the broader community, offering an opportunity to engage with industry leaders.

Designed to inform and inspire, the Space Cyber Summit provided an in-depth look into the critical intersections of space and cybersecurity. By hosting experts to discuss pressing topics and offering networking opportunities, the summit showcased the College of Business’s role as a hub for innovation and community engagement. 

Attendees heard from panelists representing the aerospace, defense, and intelligence sectors, who investigated how space policy shapes national security, infrastructure, and technological advancement.  

Keynote Speakers and Panelists Included: 

Keynote Speakers: 

  • LTG Thomas James, Deputy Commander, U.S. Space Command 
  • Debbie Wheeler, Chief Information Security Officer, Delta Airlines 

Space and Cyber Ops Panelists: 

  • Will Burns, National Intelligence Operations and Managing Director at Deloitte
  • Eric Hipkins, National Intelligence Operations and Managing Director at Deloitte
  • LTG Mark Schwartz, Former Chief of Staff, Joint Special Operations    Command 
  • Lt Gen John Shaw, U.S. Space Force, ret. 

The Summit concluded with a networking reception, fostering connections within the local space-cyber community. 

Tommy Aicher, Dean of the UCCS College of Business, opened and closed the summit, highlighting its significance. “This event exemplifies our commitment to preparing our students and the broader community for the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving space and cybersecurity industries,” said Aicher. “The insights shared today underscore the importance of collaboration between academia, industry, and the public sector to ensure a secure and innovative future. A heartfelt thank you to all keynote speakers, panelists and behind-the-scenes organizers of this event. I am especially grateful to College of Business alum, Debbie Wheeler, for her wonderful presentation and valuable insights. The UCCS College of Business takes great pride in having her as a part of our community.” 

Eric Hipkins, the driving force behind the Summit and a panelist from the Space & Cyber Ops Panel remarked, “As we look to the future, the integration of space and cyber capabilities will play a critical role in shaping both commercial and defense strategies. It is through events like this that we build the bridges necessary to strengthen the collective goals, collaboration, and community within Colorado.”

About Deloitte 

Deloitte serves the Government and Public Services industry by supporting all branches of the military, agencies of the Department of Defense, and intelligence community, as well as the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice. From cyber and logistics to finance and trustworthy AI, Deloitte is ready to meet you in the mission and drive bold and lasting results. Learn more.

About the UCCS College of Business

Established in 1965, the UCCS College of Business enrolls over 1,300 undergraduate and 350 MBA students. It offers a range of degrees, including Bachelor of Science in Business, Bachelor of Innovation, and advanced graduate degrees. With over 10,000 alumni worldwide, the College continues to influence industries globally while fostering growth in the local community. For more information, visit business.uccs.edu