Air Force mission requires diverse talent Published Nov. 2, 2009 By Master Sgt. Russell P. Petcoff Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- The Airman in charge of leading the Air Force's diversity efforts said the work is a "strategic imperative" for the service and our nation. "The Air Force's global engagement strategy requires a different approach -- a different mindset," said Col. Shawna O'Brien, chief of the Air Force's new Diversity Operations Division. "Diversity creates an environment for innovation and provides a competitive advantage," Colonel O'Brien said. "Without it we're in danger of being left behind, or worse." Air Force Director of Force Development, Daniel Sitterly, echoed her view. "Recruiting a diverse force is important. As the national security environment gets more complex, it is critical to get the right talent." The "right talent" includes, but is not limited to, those with diverse educational, socio-economic and geographic backgrounds, experiences, talents, differences of thought or ways of thinking, specialties, capabilities, family situations, ethnicities, and races. It's a composite of individual characteristics, experiences, and abilities consistent with the Air Force Core Values and the Air Force mission. Like the Air Force's Core Values, a diverse population is a part of the Air Force fabric of who we are, according to Colonel O'Brien. Indeed, the Air Force is already synchronizing the efforts of the Reserve Officer Training Corps, the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Air Force Recruiting Service. "Where the talent is, that's where we are going and it may be to communities we haven't typically visited," Colonel O'Brien said. "Where there's a gap in talent, we're going to fill it; it is that important." But the challenge extends beyond recruiting new talent. Retention of the current, highly skilled force is prompting senior leaders to examine options to improve organizational climate and commitment of Airmen, including work-life balance initiatives, the colonel said. Complementing the Air Force's efforts is the congressionally established Military Leadership Diversity Commission (MLDC), which received its charter Aug. 21 from William J. Lynn III, deputy secretary of defense. The commission, made up of current and former Department of Defense leaders and chaired by retired Gen. Lester Lyles, is evaluating and assessing policies that provide opportunities for the promotion and advancement of minority members of the armed forces. The commission will provide independent advice and recommendations to the president and Congress. "The involvement of this commission underscores the importance of diversity throughout DOD, as well as our ability to achieve national security objectives and preserve our nation's reputation as having the world's premier fighting force." For more information about the MLDC visit their Web site at http://mldc.whs.mil/.