Air University’s mobilization assistant emphasizes AFRC force development

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. David Woodworth
  • Air National Guard Advisor and Professor of Strategic Studies,
MAXWELL AFB, Ala. - --  The new mobilization assistant to the commander and president of the Air University spoke recently about the purpose and methods of deliberate force development for the careers of Air Force reservists.

Brig. Gen. Jocelyn Seng addressed a biweekly meeting of the Guard and Reserve Network, or GARNET, held at Air War College in April and attended by members of Reserve, Air National Guard, active duty, joint partners and civilians.

Citizen-Airmen contend with unique cultural concerns, said Seng, balancing civilian work with family life and military duty. She emphasized that for many reservists, exercising the ability to "opt out" of deliberate development is a key enabler in permitting those individuals to serve longer. The general emphasized that for the Reserve, "force development is not 'forced' development."

"With her strong background in education combined with her civilian research and think tank expertise, she's a perfect match for Air University and well-suited to provide the mentorship and force development guidance all of us need from time to time," said Col. Barbara Lee, director of Reserve forces at the university.

The general urged reservists to remain engaged and to review their career goals often. As she described the deliberate career paths and options available, she emphasized performing an annual "refresh" on the development decision. However, she cautioned, "you [Reserve members] can change your mind ... up to a point."

As co-founder of GARNET and the ANG's senior officer attached to Air University, Col. Edward Vaughan appreciated this glimpse into the Reserve's internal processes.

"Despite having different requirements, more open dialog can help Guard and Reserve leaders alike sort out what works--and what doesn't--for our Citizen-Airmen, their civilian employers, their families and their unique 'hybrid' careers," said Vaughan.

Seng encouraged all reservists enrolled in Air University programs to contact their nearest Reserve staff member for assistance and guidance. In her role as senior mentor, she offered both "top cover" and assistance to sort out policy issues to help expand educational opportunities for all Airmen.

"With nearly 3,000 reservists engaged as faculty and students in professional military education programs at Air University, our footprint here is significant," said Lee. "Having a senior Reserve officer with General Seng's leadership, expertise and accessibility is a big win for all of us. We're very fortunate to have her here."

At the Air University, Seng assists in providing full spectrum education, research and outreach at every level through professional military education, professional continuing education and academic degree granting. Seng earned her doctorate in mechanical engineering from Stanford University after completing bachelor and master degrees in engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her technical area of expertise is composite materials design, analysis and manufacturing, and she is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt.