Applied intelligence in real‑world environments: young analysts driving the development of the sector in Spain
In a context where intelligence and decision‑making in complex environments are gaining increasing relevance, initiatives that connect young talent with real‑world sector dynamics are becoming ever more important. ACK3 is participating as a sponsor of CLUE IT 2026, the intelligence simulation exercise organized by INDESEC, which will bring together young analysts for two days in a demanding, practical, and decision‑oriented environment. These initiatives not only bring operational reality closer to new generations but also actively contribute to developing critical capabilities for the future of the sector in Spain.
What is CLUE IT?
CLUE IT is an intelligence simulation exercise that places participants in dynamics similar to those of real analysis units, combining training, competition, and teamwork. Over two days, teams must confront a complex case, analyze information, generate hypotheses, and produce a final intelligence report oriented toward decision‑making. Unlike purely academic formats, CLUE IT introduces pressure, uncertainty, and the need for prioritization, replicating in a controlled manner key elements of the real environment in which analysts and decision‑makers operate.
An intelligence exercise in a real‑world setting
The event, held on April 16 and 17 at the Air and Space Force Headquarters and at CESEDEN, combines expert lectures, practical case development, and final evaluation by a professional jury. During the first day, participants attend talks delivered by prominent sector professionals, receive the case study, and work in teams to prepare their reports. The second day focuses on the final phase of the exercise, including oral defense, jury evaluation, and awards ceremony. Among the participants and speakers are leading professionals from institutional, academic, and corporate fields:
- Elena Sánchez Blanco, Head of Security and Intelligence at Banco Santander and ex Secretary General of the CNI
- Colonel Antonio Miguel Romón Almansa, Air and Space Staff – Operations Division (Intelligence Section)
- Ángel Rodríguez García‑Brazales, Director of the School of Economic Intelligence and International Relations
- Lieutenant Colonel Manuel Hernández González, Professor of Geopolitics at the Army War College
The jury will also include profiles linked to key institutions within the intelligence and security ecosystem:
- JA Mathés, Intelligence Center for Counter‑Terrorism and Organized Crime (CITCO)
- Ana Páramo, Nebrija University
- Andrea Bello, Intelligence Analyst at Banco Santander
This approach enables participants to develop key capabilities such as:
- Structured information analysis
- Prioritization in uncertain environments
- Production of intelligence outputs
- Teamwork under pressure
- Decision‑oriented communication
For ACK3, this type of environment makes complete sense: intelligence is not an end in itself, but a tool to make better decisions.
“The future of the sector depends not only on information, but on the judgment with which it is interpreted and transformed into decision.”
— Jorge Quintana, CEO of ACK3
What is INDESEC?
INDESEC is an independent association that connects young people interested in intelligence, defense, and security with the professional ecosystem of the sector. Through events, training initiatives, and networking spaces, it facilitates access to knowledge, opportunities, and practical experience, helping make these fields more accessible and understandable. Its mission focuses on building community, fostering critical thinking, and bringing new generations closer to real‑world environments where they can develop applied capabilities. In a sector where experience and judgment are decisive, this type of platform acts as a bridge between emerging talent and industry.
Why ACK3 supports this type of initiative
The development of the intelligence, risk management, and decision‑making sector does not depend solely on technological capabilities or organizational structures, but on the talent that shapes it. Supporting initiatives like CLUE IT allows direct contribution to the training of profiles capable of operating in complex environments, interpreting information, and making sound decisions. For ACK3, supporting these initiatives is part of a broader vision: strengthening the ecosystem, fostering the growth of new generations, and contributing to a culture of applied intelligence oriented toward decision‑making. It is not only about training analysts, but about developing professionals capable of understanding context, anticipating scenarios, and adding value in real situations. In this context, initiatives like CLUE IT align with other efforts promoted by ACK3, such as IntelMinds, aimed at building community, generating applied knowledge, and connecting talent with the professional intelligence and security environment.
“Investing in talent is not a reputational action; it is a strategic decision. The sector needs professionals who can think, not just execute.”
— Jorge Quintana, CEO of ACK3
A commitment to the future of the sector
ACK3’s participation in CLUE IT 2026 reinforces its commitment to talent development and to the evolution of a sector that is increasingly strategic. In an environment where complexity continues to grow, investing in applied training, sectoral connection, and analytical culture is not optional; it is a strategic decision. These initiatives not only generate learning, but also help build a more prepared, connected, and aligned community capable of addressing the real challenges of intelligence and decision‑making in Spain.
Are you interested in developing intelligence and decision‑making capabilities?
Initiatives like CLUE IT demonstrate that applied learning and exposure to real‑world environments are essential for building sound judgment and analytical capacity. At ACK3, we will continue supporting projects that strengthen talent and the broader ecosystem of the sector.
More information about the event:
