Welcome to #AOC2023!

	Brian Hinkley

This year, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Association of Old Crows (AOC) International Symposium and Convention, which continues to be the premier worldwide event for electromagnetic spectrum operations. We have over 2,500 expected attendees from 30+ countries from government, military, industry and academia with us to introduce innovative capabilities, inform key stakeholders, gain insight on critical requirements, create and solidify partnerships, reunite with old friends and make many new ones. We will share many stories – some even true – as we share a common passion for making progress in concert with this year’s theme of Advancing EMS Superiority Through Strategic Alliances and Partnerships.

I want to thank our sponsors and exhibiting companies, especially our host sponsor, L3Harris, for making this outstanding event possible. I also want to thank the AOC staff, Board of Directors, symposium chairs (Dennis Monahan, Ken Dworkin, Erik Bamford) and the team of invaluable volunteers who gave their time and talent this past year to make the event a success, ensuring a tremendous return on your investment to be here.

AOC is a vibrant, growing organization with over 14,000 members strong, including 30% international. We take great pride in serving our members. AOC 2023 exemplifies our commitment to driving advocacy, strengthening expertise and enhancing networking for our members. I urge you to use the next three days to strengthen your knowledge and skills by catching as many of the informative keynote, spotlight and technical sessions led by subject-matter experts. Connect with the hundreds of stakeholders and experts in the industry to expand your global network. Make the time to visit the exhibit hall comprising 170+ organizations to see the cutting-edge technologies and solutions presented. And, of course, If you are not already a member of this significant association, take advantage of the on-site discount and join AOC today!

We are living in highly challenging times. Combat continues in Europe and the Middle East, and there is increasing tension in the Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) Area of Responsibility (AOR). That said, superiority in the electromagnetic spectrum continues to prove itself as a game-changing capability that provides a decisive operational advantage in these conflicts worldwide. Integrating and synchronizing EMS operations in every warfighting domain across the entire range of military operations is a clear imperative for our warfighters. Continued success demands industry, academia, military, governments and professional associations form alliances and partnerships to share perspectives and expertise. Your attendance here shows that you are one of the passionate professionals ready and willing to collaborate to make a difference and directly impact our future. I appreciate your commitment to this incredibly noble cause.

Brian “Hinks” Hinkley
AOC President