What Happens When DU Meets the Space Force? We Went to Find Out.

Author(s)

Ritchie School Communications Team

Blog •

In the Community •

May 28, 2026

University of Denver Staff visit Buckley Space Force Base

Few places in the world that give you a front-row seat to national cybersecurity defense and logistics. Buckley Space Force Base, right in our backyard, is one of them. Buckley is a US military installation whose primary mission is managing global satellite surveillance, worldwide missile warning operations, and defense intelligence.

On May 20, cross-functional leaders from the University of Denver had the opportunity to step inside the world of Space Force. It was not what we expected. It was better.

We were welcomed by Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Kahley, Major Gared Bowers, and Paul Ortiz, Community Engagements Chief for Space Base Delta 2 Public Affairs, United States Space Force, alongside members of the 64th Cyberspace Squadron (64 CYS) and the 460th Logistics Readiness Squadron (460th LRS).

From the start, the tone was collaborative and engaging. This was a listening session, and we came ready to learn.

Getting a Front-Row Seat at the Table

During the visit, Buckley leaders provided the DU team with an inside look at how the 64 CYS and 460th LRS operate day-to-day. The cyber operations teams are doing technically demanding work protecting critical infrastructure and national security systems. The logistics readiness squadron is no less complex, covering everything from deployment planning and cargo movement to fueling, supply chains, and vehicle management across the globe.

The service members we met were sharp, engaged, and genuinely curious about how higher education might connect to the global work they are doing right now, and where they want to go in the future.

Where DU Fits In

Throughout our visit, we had the chance to share what the University of Denver brings to active duty, veterans, and civilians who work at the base. From the Daniel Felix Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, we highlighted the M.S. in Cybersecurity program built for exactly the type of technically rigorous careers represented at Buckley. We also mentioned our M.S. in Systems Engineering as another entry point to DU, with both programs designed for working professionals who need flexibility without sacrificing depth.

From the University of Denver's College of Professional Studies, we introduced the newly created Accelerated Bachelor of Professional Studies, the only 3-year bachelor's degree in Colorado, the M.S. in Supply Chain Management, and our Transportation Management programs. Whether someone is looking to finish a degree they started years ago or build expertise in a field that keeps global operations running, these programs are built to fit into the realities of daily life as a working professional.

The Bigger Picture

One of the clearest takeaways from the day was how well our programs connect to the work happening at Buckley. From Cybersecurity, systems thinking, logistics, and supply chain, there are numerous points of overlap and partnership.

We left Buckley inspired, grateful, and a lot to look forward to. Thank you to Lieutenant Colonel Kahley, Major Gerard Bowers, Paul Ortiz, and every member of the team who gave us their time and space. We saw firsthand what protecting this country looks like and are excited about our future partnership!