HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – With 38 years of service for the U.S. Air Force, the installation’s new civilian personnel officer brings a wealth of experience and passion for human resources to her new role.
Melanie McGuire, who arrived earlier this month, will lead the 66th Force Support Squadron Civilian Personnel office that provides services to more than 2,600 federal civil service employees at Hanscom AFB and geographically separate units.
“The civilian personnel team here is dedicated to providing outstanding support to a diverse civilian workforce, empowering them to succeed in their careers and contribute effectively to their respective missions,” said McGuire.
Recognizing the unique obstacles posed by the high cost of living in the region, McGuire will aim to develop innovative strategies to attract and retain top talent.
“One of my primary goals is to address recruitment and retention challenges within the civilian workforce here,” she said. “By partnering with local universities and community organizations, I will seek to tap into various talent pools and cultivate strong relationships with external stakeholders.”
Originally from Ohio, McGuire embarked on her Air Force journey at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, as a GS-3 stenographer.
Throughout her career, she steadily progressed, focusing on human resources and personnel management, both statewide and overseas.
“I’ve been one of those mobile civilians who has taken advantage of all the great opportunities within the Air Force,” she said.
Among those opportunities was professional development.
“From Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, and culminating with Navy War College in Newport, Rhode Island, I’ve pursued education to better serve,” she said. “These experiences have shaped my approach to leadership and underscored the importance of continuous learning and mentorship.”
In her previous role overseeing the Senior Executive Service program at the Pentagon in Washington D.C., McGuire gained valuable insights into executive leadership and established key relationships across the Department of Defense.
She now brings that experience to Hanscom AFB, eager to make a positive impact.
“I see our role in the air base group as more than just supporters, we are enablers of development and growth,” said McGuire. “Together with my team, we will strive to make an impact on the success of civilian employees.”
McGuire is focused on integrating and empowering her team to provide comprehensive support to civilian personnel. Through one-on-one sessions and team-building exercises with her staff, she aims to foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.
She encourages members of her team to seek out proactive engagement with the workforce to facilitate career progression at all levels.
“Our commitment to building a capable workforce isn’t just about meeting today’s challenges, it’s about empowering civilian employees to excel in the future,” said McGuire.
As she embarks on this new chapter at Hanscom AFB, McGuire is ready to work with colleagues across the installation to drive positive change.
To reach her for further information about civilian personnel matters, contact McGuire via email at melanie.mcguire@us.af.mil.