Seeing the Spectrum
Problem Statement
The United States Army’s Instrumentation, Training Aids, Computer Simulators, and Simulations (ITACSS) team faces critical challenges in managing electromagnetic spectrum usage during multinational training exercises across Europe. The primary obstacles stem from incompatible spectrum management systems between allied nations and limited data-sharing capabilities. Different frequency allocation standards, conflicting data formats, and inconsistent visibility into spectrum usage create delays and uncertainties when requesting access to necessary frequencies. Additionally, the security and operational constraints surrounding data sharing hinder collaboration and coordination with NATO allies. These challenges compromise the Army’s ability to conduct high-quality training exercises uninterrupted and limit effective communication planning across allied forces. Addressing these issues is essential to streamline spectrum management and enhance multinational military readiness.
MVP Statement
Minimum Viable Product (MVP): A Common Operating Picture (COP) for real-time spectrum management: SpecTrack.
Product:
The COP is a centralized military tool designed to coordinate real-time spectrum management across multinational forces. It builds upon existing military resources, such as Spectrum XXI and JIRSO forms, to streamline data input and centralize frequency request tracking. By consolidating these forms and systems, the COP simplifies the process of requesting, approving, and visualizing frequency allocations.
Value:
This MVP addresses identified pain points from interviews, such as planning uncertainties and delays in frequency approval. By providing trend analysis and real-time tracking of spectrum usage and conflicts, the COP minimizes disruptions in multinational training exercises and enhances coordination across allied forces. This product ultimately supports seamless communication planning and helps prevent spectrum conflicts during exercises.
Meet the Team
Nick Boychenko
Nick Boychenko is a Computer Science major at JMU, with a minor in Math. He is graduating in May 2025 and plans to be a software engineer. Nick has been interning for a fast-growing start-up company since May 2024, where he validates and visualizes data, uses machine learning for digging deeper in the data, and helps with tasks throughout the company. Hacking for Defense has been one of his favorite classes at JMU, as he has been able to utilize his critical thinking and personal experience to help on a difficult project.
Jeff Ekon
Jeff Ekon is a senior at James Madison University pursuing a degree in Integrated Science and Technology (ISAT) with a concentration in Applied Computing and a minor in Mathematics. As the former President of the National Society of Black Engineers at JMU, he led initiatives fostering community and growth for aspiring engineers. He is skilled in Python, SQL, and machine learning, with hands-on experience designing databases and implementing solutions for real-world challenges. His projects include creating an autonomous security system using a Unitree Robotics Go2 Pro robot and developing a 3-tier database architecture for remote deployment. He joined the Hacking for Defense course to apply his technical skills to complex government challenges and create innovative solutions that address real-world issues in national security and beyond. After graduating in May 2025, Jeff plans to leverage his expertise in data and technology to drive impactful change.
Abby Fornadel
Abby Fornadel is a senior at James Madison University, majoring in International Affairs with a concentration in Foreign Policy and Global Governance. At JMU, she is the President of the JMU Alumni Association Student Committee as well as a voting member on the Board of Directors as the Student Representative. She works as a Democracy Fellow for the Madison Center for Civic Engagement and previously as a University Events Lead Intern at JMU. She also serves in many volunteer organizations, including JMU SafeRides and Cyber Defense Club. She enjoys thinking outside the box and joined Hacking for Defense to work up solutions to the unique problems faced by government agencies.
Rafa Gould
Rafa Gould is a senior at James Madison University pursuing a degree in Computer Science with a minor in Data Science. Throughout his time at JMU, Rafa has developed skills in front-end and full-stack programming, data visualization and interactive design. His interdisciplinary approach to learning led to a hands–on experience: managing Enterprise Management Software (EMS) platforms for clients at a consulting firm in Andorra. Rafa’s interests include software development and financial technology, where he aims to use his skills to drive innovation. He joined the Hacking for Defense team because he enjoys working with clients to deliver impactful solutions.
Samuel Lee
Samuel Lee is a senior Finance major at James Madison University, concentrating in Financial Technology and Analytics, with a minor in Mathematics. Set to graduate in December 2025, he is actively involved in Epsilon Nu Tau and the Financial Management Association, demonstrating his commitment to professional and academic excellence. Samuel’s post-graduation plans include commissioning into the United States Army, where he aims to put his analytical skills to work protecting the nation and its citizens. His participation in the Hacking for Defense course reflects his dedication to addressing national security challenges and finding innovative solutions to emerging threats.
Rachel McCoy
Rachel McCoy is a senior at James Madison University, pursuing a degree in Computer Science with minors in Entrepreneurship and Mathematics. At JMU, she is an NCAA Division I swimmer and a participant in the RISE Women’s Leadership Academy, developing leadership skills and contributing to women’s empowerment initiatives. Rachel has interned as a Software Engineer at Praxis Engineering and as a Technology Intern at Ben Lewis Plumbing, where she gained experience in data science, software development, and corporate technology solutions. She joined the Hacking for Defense course to apply her technical skills to solve complex government challenges and create meaningful solutions in real-world contexts.
Katie Moorer
Katie Moorer is a sophomore at James Madison University. She is an International Affairs major with a concentration in Foreign Policy and Global Governance and has two minors in Public Policy and Administration and Modern European Studies. She was a judicial intern at the District of Columbia Court of Appeals (DCCA). While there, she analyzed and interpreted the D.C. Assault Code and opinions issued by the DCCA and compiled data markers based on past decisions to help write future opinions. She will graduate in May of 2027, with plans to work on NATO policy. She has greatly enjoyed being a part of the Hacking for Defense class and appreciates all the opportunities it has given her to examine and attempt to tackle “wicked” problems for the U.S. Military.