Inaugural Magnolia Crucible forum co-hosted by MSU, FBI, National Guard with national security, military readiness focus

Leaders from Mississippi State, Mississippi National Guard and Federal Bureau of Investigation gather at Camp Shelby Joint Forces Training Center during the inaugural Magnolia Crucible event last week.

The two-day forum and exercise brought together military, law enforcement, academic and industry partners to test and integrate emerging unmanned aircraft systems and counter-UAS technologies to strengthen national security.

Standing, from left, are Jeffery Gonzales, Mississippi Cyber Initiative cyber range engineer; Shelly Hollis, MSU Center for Cyber Education director; George Trawick, MSU Center for Cyber Innovation director; Jim Martin, MSU associate vice president of Corporate Engagement and Economic Development; Brian Locke, MSU assistant police chief; Bryan Farrell, MSU Raspet Flight Research Laboratory director; Brigadier General Jamie Hankins, Mississippi National Guard Joint Staff; and Brig. Gen. Andrew Rendon, Mississippi National Guard and MSU Veterans Affairs executive director. (Photo submitted)