TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. —
The 552nd Air Management Wing’s Ladies’s Initiative Workforce hosted Tinker Air Power Base’s first girls’s summit Sep. 26 on the Oklahoma Corridor of Fame to advertise science, expertise, engineering and math and rated careers to native college students and have fun feminine aviators.
The summit’s theme was “Breaking Obstacles, constructing bridges: empowering girls in management.”
The occasion featured two keynote audio system, the primary being retired Gen. Lori Robinson, the primary girl combatant commander of the USA Northern Command and North American Aerospace Protection Command, and a former commander of the 552nd ACW. Col. Kristen Thompson, the primary feminine fifty fifth Wing commander additionally spoke.
Moreover, two separate panels of girls from Tinker Air Power Base and an all-women staff from Oklahoma State College equipped varied STEM actions to incorporate robotics, circuit constructing, digital actuality, 3D printing and lip gloss making.
“The 552nd ACW has a historical past of feminine aviators, STEM professionals, and leaders. We’re honored to proceed that legacy at this time and hope to encourage you with the eagerness and accomplishments of the ladies right here,” mentioned Col. Kenneth Voigt, the commander of the 552nd ACW.
The almost 100 summit attendees obtained a lot recommendation on navigating discrimination, equality, shattering boundaries, and glass ceilings.
“Having the braveness to be prepared to have interaction in awkward conversations is admittedly necessary,” mentioned Col. Abigail Ruscetta, the commander of 72nd Air Base Wing. She shared this recommendation to empower attendees who expertise discriminatory conditions.
Robinson, shared that it’s incumbent on leaders and Airmen to deal with everybody as equals. She inspired leaders and Airmen to show one another the best way to accomplish this.
“Be one of the best that you could be, and do your job properly,” mentioned Robinson. Including, that it is important to create a various staff to attain success.
“Do properly, work laborious, and be proud. The Air Power is your best option for a profession,” mentioned retired Maj. Suzanne Dunn-Howard, the primary feminine Airborne Warning and Management System crew members. Dunn-Howard, a Gulf Warfare Veteran supported NORAD in Alaska and NATO missions over Europe.
Feminine leaders and aviators are wanted to maintain the way forward for Tinker Air Power Base and the Air Power mission. The Air Power has the very best share of girls, with roughly 21% of the drive being feminine; nevertheless, the Air Power would welcome extra females to hitch. Ladies deliver a special perspective to the desk, enabling the Air Power to adapt for the long run.
“My favourite a part of the summit was listening to all of the visitor audio system and their expertise with their journey of turning into of their positions within the Air Power,” mentioned Airman Stephanie Williams, an E-3 avionics apprentice with the 552nd Plane Upkeep Squadron.
To study extra about the best way to be part of the Air Power go to the 349th Recruiting Squadron’s web page, click on right here.