WASHINGTON — Headquarters Air Force released finalized implementation plans following the second notification to Airmen relaying new diversity and inclusion initiatives on April 9, 2017.
Diversity and inclusion efforts have been a fundamental priority for the Air Force in addressing today’s ever evolving national security challenges, the memo explained.
According to Air Force leadership, creating and fostering this environment of diversity and inclusion will enhance the ability to recruit from the broadest possible pool of talent, solve the toughest challenges, and engage the full power of an innovative force.
The memo summarizes the implementations for 13 initiatives including efforts to provide additional support to geographically-separated military spouses, lengthen the early separation decision window for female Airmen having children, establish diverse slates for key military development positions, promote civilian participation in professional development programs, and better market career fields that currently lack diversity to female and minority populations.
The Air Force has made continuous efforts toward enhancing diversity and inclusion throughout the force, including nine initiatives launched in 2015 to help build teams comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and demographics. However, Air Force leaders acknowledged work remains to ensure continued success.
In September 2016, Air Force senior leaders released the second memorandum to Airmen relaying new diversity and inclusion initiatives; the additional information on the initiatives aligns with Defense Department diversity efforts and recognizes the strength of the force will always be in its people.
The Air Force will continue to look holistically at talent management processes for opportunities to ensure the Air Force is an employer of choice for the nation’s best and brightest talent and capitalizes on the unique contributions of all Airmen, Air Force leadership said.
For additional information on the initiatives, Airmen are encouraged to speak with their chain of command and force support squadrons. For specific personnel guidance related to each initiative, Airmen should go to myPers.
