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CNIC N9 Innovation Summit: N9 Leaders Convene to Explore Emerging Technologies, Innovative Concepts and Foster Collaborations

October 24, 2024 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command Fleet and Family Readiness | Fleet and Family Readiness

The Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) N9 Innovation Summit centered around the theme “Leading with Vision, Achieving with Action,” was an unprecedented event highlighted by the presence of executive leaders from the Department of Defense (DoD) and CNIC along with several inspiring keynote speakers from both the public and private sectors. This inaugural event held on September 10-12 in San Antonio, Texas gathered179 attendees comprised mostly of FFR leaders represented the 10 Department of the Navy regions and 69 installations around the world. The event also featured insightful discussions with FFR Headquarters Program Directors (HPDs) and numerous opportunities for N9 collaboration among installations, regions, and headquarters.

The CNIC N9 Innovation Summit opened with an inspiring welcome from Leslie Gould SES, FFR Director, who highlighted a music video produced by the band Old Dominion featuring their new single, “Coming Home,” filmed on the USS Gerald Ford. “This showcases the talent we have within FFR when great teams come together to integrate,” Gould remarked. She then celebrated FFR’s achievements in 2024, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing quality of life (QOL) resources in areas such as housing, childcare and mental health. Looking ahead, Gould introduced the guiding theme, “Measure What Matters,” which will steer FFR programs. “We want you to go back home and lead to inspire toward action and data-based decisions,” said Gould, adding that data will help identify trends where QOL programs can make a difference. Gould also empathized that having the best and most impactful programs will make a true difference to Sailors and their families.

Also present was Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander of Navy Installations Command. He emphasized the critical role FFR leaders have in shaping the future of its programs. “Always stay focused on our mission,” Gray said to a crowd of more than 175 attendees. “The work you’re doing is important. Go do great things!”

Patricia Barron, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for Military Community and Family Policy, delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing the crucial role FFR plays in connecting Navy families with essential resources. “You are the bridge between Navy families and the resources they need,” she said. Drawing from her experiences as a military spouse, Barron acknowledged the dedication of FFR personnel and encouraged innovative approaches to fulfilling their mission. “Your selfless dedication goes beyond just a job. Thank you for what you do,” she said.

Over the first two days, breakout sessions provided attendees with insights into the latest innovations from various FFR programs, covering topics such as the Virtual Clinical Counseling Program, updates on Child and Youth Programs, Morale, Welfare and Recreation’s (MWR) strategic plan and others. “The breakout sessions went very well; we averaged about 35 attendees in each of the four sessions,” said James Shipp, MWR deputy director. “We briefed on the MWR Strategic Plan updates, Galley initiatives, our new MWR Virtual Single Sailor Program and more. Interaction with the session attendees was great, and we allocated time for questions and answers at the end of each session.”

The final day of the Summit featured an expo where various FFR programs engaged with attendees to highlight their successes. “The N9 Summit Expo was excellent,” said Kim Hansen, Naval Base Coronado MWR director. “I enjoyed speaking with the vendors about exciting new technology. The N9 booths were informative, and being able to ask questions that pertained to our customer needs exceeded my expectations.” The Summit wrapped up with a highly anticipated Fireside Chat with Ms. Gould and the HPDs, who answered questions submitted by attendees ahead of the event.

Overall, the event was deemed a success. “The N9 Innovation Summit went very well,” Shipp said. “It provided a great opportunity to ask questions, learn new information, and an introduction to many new colleagues that I had not previously met in person.”

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