Ashley San Miguel
Two employees of the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex recently marked a milestone: 40 years of service, a testament to their dedication and the vital work done at Tinker Air Force Base.
Vickie Nelson, a training monitor for the 76th Aircraft Maintenance Group, began her career in Sept. 1985 as a data transcriber. During her tenure, she participated in a Trades and Crafts program which led her to becoming an aircraft mechanic specializing in fuels, hydraulics, rigging and kitting.
Carol Owen, a planning chief with the 76th Propulsion Maintenance Group, also marked 40 years of service. Owen's career began in August 1985 as a key punch operator. Through participation in the Trades and Crafts program, she advanced to positions including equipment specialist, tool operator, and ultimately, planning chief.
The OC-ALC at Tinker Air Force Base is home to the Department of War’s largest maintenance, repair and overhaul facility with a team of over 9,000 military and civilian professionals delivering combat power for America.
Brig. Gen. Lindsay Droz, left, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex commander presents Vickie Nelson, 76th Aircraft Maintenance Group training monitor, right, with a certificate celebrating her 40 years of federal civilian service at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Sept. 15, 2025. Nelson began her service as a data transcriber in 1985 and eventually became an aircraft mechanic specializing in fuels, hydraulics, rigging and kitting. (U.S. Air Force photo by Paul Shirk) 
Brig. Gen. Lindsay Droz, left, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex commander presents Carol Owen, 76th Propulsion Maintenance Group TF33 and GE planning chief, at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, Sept. 16, 2025. Owen received letters of appreciation from the Commander of Air Force Materiel Command and a certificate of service. (U.S. Air Force photo by Ashley San Miguel)