New OG commander: 'Even small changes can make a difference' - Williams committed to innovation, supporting Airmen

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Stephen J. Collier
  • 349th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Focusing on instilling a continuing culture of innovation, Col. Stephanie Williams assumed command Dec. 6, 2014 of the 349th Operations Group in a ceremony at Hangar 14 here.

Williams, a 23-year Air Force veteran with a mobility aircraft background, explained to the 100-plus crowd her vision of leadership, which focuses on innovation.
"One of the words I consistently see used in our Air Force today is the word innovation," said Williams. "Two primary definitions that you would find in the dictionary for innovation is the introduction of something new, or a new idea, method, or device. When you think of the Air Force, we were born from the spirit of innovation."

Williams continued, highlighting some of the innovations that are positively affecting the 349th OG. Innovations such as the C-5M modernized cargo aircraft, electronic flight bags for aircrew members and even how aircraft are employed overseas.
Presiding over the ceremony, Col. Matthew Burger, 349th Air Mobility Wing commander, said the operation group's newest commander understands what it takes to deliver on the promise of global mobility and airlift.

"To effectively deliver mobility capabilities, you need a commander who can balance training and production with volunteerism and mobilization," Burger said. "Someone who can find time to recharge the batteries as well as someone who knows when it's time to lean forward. We've picked the right person to strike that balance, and that's Col. Stephanie Williams. What better place to do that than the 349th Operations Group."

Before the ceremony's end, Williams challenged the members of the 349th OG to continue along the path of innovation.

"I challenge each and every one of us to continue to innovate. Even small changes can make a difference. Those who have come before us in the 349th OG left us a great legacy to be proud of and to emulate. The key is keeping our minds open to possibilities, and our hands and feet ready to go out and get it done."