HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Col. Eve McCloud is taking over as the deputy portfolio acquisition executive for Electronic Systems at a pivotal time for Air Force acquisition.
McCloud returns to Team Hanscom 20 years after her previous assignment here, and as the Air Force is accelerating acquisition transformation efforts.
“This is an unprecedented and exciting time,” she said. “We understand where we're trying to go, and we're being empowered with the tools and authorities necessary to move faster and deliver what our warfighters need.”
McCloud said the Electronic Systems Directorate is uniquely positioned to inform and influence capabilities across the Air Force, from electronic warfare and precision navigation and timing to aerospace management.
“There's not a domain that we don't compliment,” McCloud said. “We’re a part of an organization that’s transforming how we deliver capabilities, and we have an opportunity to continue leading that transformation on behalf of the Department of the Air Force.”
While focused on the future, McCloud said deployments to Afghanistan continue to shape her perspective on leadership and service.
“Both left lasting impressions on me because I was able to lead teams in direct support of operations,” she said. “These experiences left a lasting impression because they made me deeply appreciate all the leaders and mentors, both in and out of the Air Force, who took the time to shape me as a person and a professional."
Those experiences also influence how she develops future leaders.
“I think being able to meet people where they are helps you understand both their career and personal priorities,” the colonel said. “From there, you can work together to help them achieve the goals that matter most to them.”
She said fostering an “art of the possible” mindset is essential to building a culture of innovation and adaptability.
“I think we may have to become comfortable with being uncomfortable and willing to look at problems through a new lens,” she said.
As she begins her new assignment, McCloud said she is inspired by the Electronic Systems workforce and eager to help the organization through its next chapter.
“I am already encouraged by what this team accomplishes every day and, more importantly, who they do it for,” she said. “I am excited to join this team and help define our next mission together.”