Two Department of the Air Force members were honored at the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year Awards, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics conference in Baltimore. Department of the Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall highlighted the importance of STEM fields in national defense and recognized the contributions of diverse talents in Great Power Competition. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin introduced Lt. Col. Shari Perkins, who received the Air Force’s annual award for her work in advancing STEM-related scholarships for youth and leading the development of the Air Force’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility strategic plan.
U.S. Space Force Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein introduced Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton, the Space Force’s annual award winner, at the conference. Middleton, a career missile officer currently serving as the deputy director for operations at the National Military Command Center, was praised for embodying honor, courage, and commitment. The BEYA STEM conference, held annually for over three decades, aims to bring together minorities with professional interests in STEM fields, providing networking, mentorship sessions, learning opportunities, and recognition ceremonies for high school and college students, as well as corporate, government, and military professionals.
The Air Force and Space Force rely on top leaders and technical experts to perform their missions and safeguard America from growing threats. The DAF has been recognized for having the best talent the country has to offer, with individuals like Lt. Col. Shari Perkins and Brig. Gen. Jacob Middleton making significant contributions in their respective fields. The annual BEYA STEM conference serves as a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and celebrate achievements in STEM, fostering a community of support and advancement in these critical fields.
