Since Freedom Consulting Group opened its doors, we have been involved with the Armed Forces Communication and Electronics Association (AFCEA). Supporting the Central Maryland chapter, FCG has participated in AFCEA CMD’s annual 5K for several years – and 2018 is no different. So we sat down with Regina T, FCG’s Contracts/Legal Manager, who has played a major part in helping FCG run (both literally and metaphorically) the AFCEA 5K, to get all the juicy details for this year’s race:

Tell us about this year’s race.
The 11^th Annual AFCEA 5K and Family Fun Run is scheduled for April 28^th this year. Entry fees and Corporate Sponsor donations benefit the Scholarship Fund which awards over $200,000 annually to area high school students and teachers focused on STEM fields of study. The race will start at Leidos in Columbia, MD where roughly 50 local companies will compete for bragging rights to be named the fastest or largest teams! In recent years, more than 1,000 participants have turned out, making it one of the Chapter’s biggest events.

How does FCG support AFCEA?
FCG encourages our employees to get involved as a way to interact with our Government customers, promote our values of volunteerism, pride in our mission and military partners, and access to STEM education for local students. Several FCG employees are dedicated runners, while others just enjoy getting out in the fresh air with family and friends, so early in the AFCEA 5k’s history, we encouraged our staff to participate in this great cause.

What other ways does FCG get involved with AFCEA?
Over the years, Freedom has been active in AFCEA as an annual Silver and Bronze sponsor, participating in chapter events such as monthly luncheons, Technology over Bagels events, local science fair judging, and the annual Bull & Oyster Roast and Valentine Gala. 

Are there similar events FCG has been involved with?
Freedom also supports the Ft. Meade Alliance, which is another organization that coordinates informative events to increase the growth and success of local technology efforts and our Government customers.

Describe your personal involvement and how that got started.
When I joined Freedom in 2010, I was looking for opportunities to network with others in our industry. I found that AFCEA welcomed volunteers of all levels and professional backgrounds and turned out to be a great place to interact with Government partners and companies in the area.

After volunteering at several 5k events, I agreed to be co-chair of the 2013 run, where FCG showed up in force with our “Nerds Run the World” team theme. It was very exciting to see the level of commitment by so many companies, large and small, partnering to raise scholarships funds and enjoy some healthy exercise, networking, and community goodwill. I even got to personally invite the Oriole Bird and Poe, the Ravens’ mascot, who both attended that year. We also had two local yoga studios warm up the crowd of 1,000 runners of all ages. It took months of planning – but it was a lot of fun to be involved at that level.

How can those interested in participating sign up?
Registration for both individual runners and corporate teams (“Friends of FCG” are always welcome!) is now open on the AFCEA CMD 5K and Fun Run website.

Even if you’re not a runner, there is something for everyone at this event! In years past, we have had face-painting, games, coloring/craft stations, and more for young children. High school students who participate in the event receive volunteer hours for helping us out. It is a lot of fun for a great cause – so get your team together and start training!

As if you need another reason to support this incredible cause, there will be an after party with food, drinks, and giveaways immediately following the run. Sign up for the race or simply come say hello! If you want to be a part of the FCG team every single day, check out our Careers page.