AFLCMC Inspires Future Leaders with Immersive Job Shadow Experience

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFLCMC)---Two high school students with bright futures recently stepped into the world of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) to explore exciting career paths. 

Through personalized job shadow opportunities, the students gained a firsthand look at the diverse missions within the center, from cutting-edge engineering to international relations. 

A Glimpse into Engineering and Innovation 

David Harrison, a high school senior from Tennessee with a passion for computer science and systems engineering, was hosted by AFLCMC’s Engineering Directorate. Heath Morton, a training systems technical advisor, guided David through a day of innovation and discovery. 

His immersive experience included: 

• A visit to the Air Force Research Lab’s Gaming Research and Innovation Learning Lab (GRILL) to see how gaming technology is leveraged for training. 

• An inside look at the AFLCMC Training Directorate’s Innovation Cell. 

• An introduction to Model-Based Systems Engineering. 

• A tour of the iconic National Museum of the United States Air Force. 

Morton was impressed by David's initiative, noting, "he didn’t often meet high school students with David’s initiative and drive and who are working on high school projects related to defense.” 

David found the visit to the simulator's innovation cell and the museum particularly enjoyable. He expressed his appreciation for the valuable insights on how to best prepare for a potential Air Force career during his college years. 

As a next step, Morton provided David with information on key recruitment programs and offered to serve as a mentor. 

Exploring Global Partnerships in Foreign Military Sales 

Avery Mundy, a sophomore from Centerville, Ohio, with an interest in international relations and travel, spent her day with the professionals at the Air Force Security Assistance & Cooperation (AFSAC) Directorate. 

Ariella Brown, a program manager with AFSAC’s Ukraine team guided Avery, providing an in-depth look at how the directorate fosters international relationships. 

Avery's day was filled with engaging discussions, including: 

• Meetings with AFSAC leaders, including Materiel Leader Col. John Machuca and Director of Staff Marc Mazza, who explained AFSAC’s critical role in ensuring international partner cooperation and security. 

• A unique opportunity to meet with Polish Foreign Liaison Officer (FLO) Col. Michal Raszka, who offered his perspective on international collaboration with the United States. 

• A roundtable discussion with Foreign Military Sales (FMS) professionals from various country teams, who shared the vast career potential within an organization like AFSAC. 

Avery appreciated the depth and diversity of her time with AFSAC and especially enjoyed the round table discussion and getting to meet and talk with the Polish FLO. 

She plans to incorporate some of the insights she gleaned from the experience into her learning objectives such as joining the Model UN at her school and looking into other leadership club activities being offered.  

Pathways to an Air Force Civilian Career 

Both David and Avery were introduced to two premier programs designed to bring new talent into the Department of the Air Force: the Premier College Internship Program (PCIP) and the PALACE Acquire (PAQ) Program. These programs are instrumental in building the next generation of Air Force leaders by providing mentorship, hands-on experience, and career acceleration. 

Here’s a quick look at what these programs offer: