Female officer balances work, family Published March 24, 2005 By 2nd Lt. Lisa Spilinek 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. (AFPN) -- Balancing a career and a family is difficult for everyone. When that career in question is commanding the 103 personnel in the medical operations squadron here, the challenge can be immense.Lt. Col. Joycelyn Elaiho, a pediatric nurse practitioner who is the 66th Medical Operations Squadron commander and chief nurse executive here, has learned the technique of balancing the two, or what she refers to as "flexing and surging.""In whatever you do, the goal is to show up and give your best everyday," she said. "Some days are more of a challenge than others. Some days you are flexible at home and must surge at work and vice versa. It just depends on what is going on."Colonel Elaiho said the opportunity to serve her country while growing professionally and to travel motivated her to join the Air Force.She received her commission in May 1983. Since then, the Columbia, Miss., native has served at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas; Eglin AFB, Fla.; Minot AFB, N.D.; March Air Reserve Base, Calif.; Royal Air Force Lakenheath, United Kingdom; and Ramstein Air Base, Germany.Colonel Elaiho came to Hanscom at the end of June last year and assumed command of the medical operations squadron on July 1.She said she considers her job here to be the best she has had thus far because of the people in the squadron."Although it is an extremely busy clinic, the people make it worth it everyday," she said. "The men and women who serve with me daily just keep on giving of themselves unconditionally. I am amazed by their accomplishments every single day."The significance of being included in an ever-growing pool of women serving in the military is not lost on her, she said."Historically, women have come a long way over the years," she said. “It is amazing to see the growing number of female high-ranking officers and enlisted servicemembers from all branches of military service. Women now serve roles traditionally held by men and continue to make measurable contributions."Colonel Elaiho said she views the changing role of women in not only this country, but around the world, with optimism."The goal must be an increased role for women in all economies and opportunities because we bring a different but relevant perspective to problem solving," she said. "I truly believe that when men and women work collaboratively, the result is a mutually assured success."But it all comes back to balance and having a positive outlook on life for Colonel Elaiho."As a female commander, wife and mother, my daily experience clearly requires an understanding and supportive family," she said. "Trust me, it takes a lot of effort, dedication and hard work to balance work, life and family."Keeping things in perspective also helps Colonel Elaiho stay balanced, she said."Always look back, lift another soul up and make the world a better place because you are in it," she said.Besides remembering the past, Colonel Elaiho said she also has clear ambitions for her future.Her professional goals are tied to the military, and she said she would like to continue her time in the service. She also wants to see her two daughters complete college and she wants to do more traveling, including visiting Europe and Japan, as well as places in the U.S."The goal remains creating a family, work and life balance," she said.