Alyssa Janeway
The Wright-Patterson Junior Force Council held its annual Leadership Symposium on Sept. 5, at the Wright-Patt Club, drawing in approximately 100 attendees from across the installation.
With 65 percent of participants in their first year of employment, the event served as a key professional development opportunity for new members of the Wright-Patterson AFB workforce. The symposium aimed to foster leadership growth through networking, expert insights and direct engagement with senior leaders.
The day featured a wide array of speakers and activities. Lt. Gen. (Ret.) C.D. Moore delivered the keynote address, speaking on the theme of “Harnessing Innovation, Embracing Change.” His remarks highlighted the importance of adapting to new challenges and remaining agile in today’s Air Force environment.
Megan Fitzner, Wright-Patt Junior Force Council Leadership Symposium chair, planned and led the event.
A major highlight of the symposium was the civilian development panel, which brought together senior leaders from across the installation to share insights on their career journeys and offered advice on navigating professional growth in a complex and evolving Air Force structure. Including opening remarks, the symposium hosted fifteen speakers and over twenty organizations during a resource fair. This gave participants a chance to explore opportunities for further development, mentorship and involvement across base units.
The event ended with a presentation from Dr. Patrick Berry, Technical Advisor of Artificial Intelligence and Ms. Lily Arcusa, Director of Engineering and Technical Management Chief Engineer. They opened the floor to questions, for example, balancing innovation and efficiency while also working on your daily tasks.
Ms. Catherine Sumner, Ms. Jodi Pierri, Ms. Jennifer Morgan
Ms. Tracy Patrick engages with Wright-Patt Junior Force Leadership Symposium attendees to talk about their experiences and give insights into leadership on Sept. 4, 2025, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The council focuses on developing Air Force leaders through professional development, leadership, service, and networking opportunities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jack Gardner) 
Attendees of the Wright-Patt Junior Force Council Annual Leadership Symposium interact with base agencies to gain an understanding of their operations on Sept. 4, 2025, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The council focuses on developing Air Force leaders through professional development, leadership, service, and networking opportunities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jack Gardner) 
Dr. Patrick Berry gives a presentation on leadership during the Wright-Patt Junior Force Leadership Symposium on Sept. 4, 2025, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The council focuses on developing Air Force leaders through professional development, leadership, service, and networking opportunities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jack Gardner)