Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD — The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) co-hosted the Non-Conventional Threat (NCT) USA conference from September 6-8, 2022, at the Chemical Demilitarization Training Facility in Edgewood, Maryland, on Aberdeen Proving Ground (South).

The NCT USA conference provided an opportunity for the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNe) and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community to engage with government and military senior leaders, industry, academia and first responders.

During the three-day event, more than 450 registered attendees were encouraged to participate in PRO trainings, DEVCOM CBC facilities tours, exhibition networking events and panel discussions. Among the many distinguished speakers, MG Edmond ‘Miles’ Brown, DEVCOM Commanding General, provided opening remarks to kick off the event, speaking on integration and how the community can prepare for future readiness.

A unique part of the conference, NCT PRO trainings allowed first responders hands-on experience with future innovations and transformations for CBRNe and EOD defense. The training events allowed participants to work with new technologies provided by the conference vendors that apply to their regular CBRNe response routines.

Alvaro Tonanez, a training officer from the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department, expressed appreciation for the opportunities the training provided for his team. “It’s important that we get to see new and developing equipment. These training sessions also gave us time to network with other important personnel. Policies and procedures are constantly evolving, and these events are always a good way to showcase the latest procedures and equipment,” Tonanez said.

As the Center’s mission is to provide innovative CBRNe solutions to protect warfighters and the Nation, co-hosting NCT USA offers a combined effort to ensure preparedness against future threats.

DEVCOM CBC Director Dr. Eric Moore said, “We live in a world where the threat landscape is expanding and ever-changing. Innovative solutions to current and emerging chemical and biological threats are essential to making the world safe. We must continue learning from past lessons and partner effectively to quickly get technologies in the warfighter’s hands.”