2024 STEM Hero Honorees

Education:  PhD in Professional Studies in Information Management; Masters in Information Management for Executives, Syracuse University; Masters in Leadership Studies, University of Texas; Bachelors in Journalism, University of Florida

As Military Deputy to the Army Capability Manager for Cyberspace Operations at Georgia’s Fort Eisenhower, LTC Rebecca Charles-Williams has shown herself to be a rising star in the military cybersecurity world, a role model in her community, a prize-winning thesis writer, and an emerging voice in the world of developmental economics. 

As Chief of Staff of the directorate, Becca  oversees four different branches, and plays a crucial role for talent management, the professional development of the technical workforce, and facilitating seamless coordination among stakeholders for effective product management and delivery. 

She has been requested by the Headquarters of the Army Signal Corps Branch to chair direct commissioning panels based on her expertise, as well as panels for the selection of broadening options for the Army’s most competitive opportunities. 

Recently, she was one of four candidates among several dozen Army officers selected to compete in the Army’s Battalion Command Assessment Program and was identified as “Ready to Command” one of five strategically located Regional Cyber Centers in the United States, Europe, and Asia. 

Her groundbreaking research has earned her the Doctor of Professional Studies Award for Excellence in Research from Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies (iSchool), as well as recognition for her insightful work on the Insider Threat to Military networks. 

Indeed, Becca’s leadership transcends the military. Her recent defense of her doctoral thesis, “Sociocultural Behaviors That Affect How Haitian Americans Learn Financial Literacy,” exemplifies her scholarly prowess and dedication to addressing pertinent societal issues. 

This thesis was awarded by the Syracuse University School of Information Studies for Best Thesis/Dissertation. The paper also resulted in an invitation to a private conference at MIT on Haiti’s financial future.  While economics is not a traditional STEM field, Becca more than held her own with the MIT scholars.

Beyond her professional achievements, Rebecca is committed to mentorship, community engagement, and the advancement of Women in STEM. Her dedication to fostering the growth and development of her subordinates, coupled with her efforts to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders through volunteer initiatives, exemplifies multifaceted excellence as a scholar, technical leader, executive, and colleague.

Becca remains deeply connected to her Haitian-American heritage and is passionate about supporting immigrant communities.  In all aspects of her life, she embodies the values of integrity, resilience, and service.