Capital Airmen Seminar Concludes

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Matthew Davis
  • Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. --  Thirty Airmen completed the Air Force District of Washington's sixth annual Capital Airmen Development Seminar today at the General Jacob E. Smart Center.

The professional development opportunity, which included briefings by senior Air Force leaders, candid discussions, and a tour of the U.S. Capitol building, was designed to increase participants' understanding of current Air Force issues and programs.

"At this point in their career, these Airmen need to know how all the moving parts of our Air Force work together to accomplish the mission," said AFDW Commander Maj. Gen. Darryl Burke. "This is a prime opportunity for these Airmen to get a high-level view of AFDW operations and the role the Air Force plays in the National Capital Region."

Air Force leaders offered strategic level insight into the most prevalent challenges facing the Air Force today. Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services, Lt. Gen. Gina Grosso spoke about the integration of women into the armed services, diversity, and budgeting with readiness.

"We have to maintain the balance between capacity and readiness. To be able to meet the needs of the future, we need more capacity," said Grosso. "I think it's time that the nation has to decide how much of the force that we need."

The Airmen will leverage the insights from this seminar to motivate and lead the Airmen in their sphere of influence.

"This is an amazing opportunity not only to talk to senior leaders about topics, but also to be around NCOs and CGOs to network and learn about some of the other squadrons and groups missions," said 2nd Lt. Terresa Simmonds, AFDW A1 executive officer. "I've learned a lot about new policies since I've been here such as the new maternity leave and new retirement system. I've learned a lot about my career fields and others as well. I'll be taking all that information back to my office."

Professional development opportunities are critical for all Airmen, but according to Maj. Gen. Burke, perspective is critical for these front-line supervisors.

"These Airmen are responsible for implementing Air Force initiatives across our force," said Burke. "This seminar puts their day-to-day operations in perspective and will equip them to lead their Airmen with intentionality and purpose."