Women in defense.

A National Security Organization

Cultivating and supporting the advancement and recognition of women in all aspects of national security is the mission of Women In Defense, A National Security Organization (WID). The association was established to provide women a formal environment for professional growth through networking, education, and career development. Members of this professional organization, including men and women, have careers related to the defense of the United States and national security.

Women In Defense, which in 2010 celebrated its 25th anniversary since being established formally as an organization, became an affiliate of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) in 2004.This affiliation allows WID members to automatically become members of NDIA. Our members represent three main categories: large and small defense companies and other businesses; all branches of the armed forces, plus federal government agencies; and academia, associations, and professional services. Approx. 4,000 members belong to WED. These members are then organized into 19 chapters across the U.S.

Members receive:

* a framework for expanding professional networks

* educational and professional development opportunities, including information from National Defense magazine

* opportunities to meet distinguished government and industry officials in open discussions

* a source for scholarships The National Board Of Directors, elected by the membership, governs this organization. Appointed committees help carry out the association's mission.

Programs throughout the nation focus on professional development and networking. WID events range from the National Conference in the greater Washington, D.C. area, to dozens of programs developed and conducted by chapters. Encouraging interest in science, technology, engineering, and math careers is among the priorities of the national organization and its chapters.

Members gain access to fellow defense and national security professionals through 19 chapters located throughout the nation. Chapters serve members and the defense community in a defined geographical area while fulfilling the association's mission. Chapters host programs in cooperation with local military representatives, provide professional development for members through leadership opportunities, and support community-based endeavors. Local military installations play a role in the vitality of the chapters.

The oldest chapter in the current form, the Iowa/Illinois Chapter, is centered at Rock Island Arsenal, Ill.

Covering Connecticut and Rhode Island, the northeast region is represented by the New England Shoreline Chapter.

The Picatinny Chapter serves predominately government employees at northern New Jersey's Picatinny Arsenal.

The Greater Frederick Chapter serves members in Frederick and Fort Detrick, Md., plus surrounding areas.

In eastern Maryland, WID members who work with or support Aberdeen Proving Ground or Edgewood Chemical Biological Center belong to the Mid-Atlantic Chapter.

In southern Maryland, industry representatives make up the majority of the...