New EO director takes helm

  • Published
  • By Mark Wyatt
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
Hanscom's new Equal Opportunity director has more than 20 years as a civil servant, many of which have been committed to fostering a workplace environment that promotes equality for all employees.

Since arriving at Hanscom last month from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Wendy Reyes has been impressed by the EO climate here.

"Capt. Joy Lawal and Tech. Sgt. Raphael De La Rosa have done a stellar job over the past several months promoting an environment in the workplace that is free from barriers," she said. "I look forward to being a part of this fantastic team."

Reyes, whose father is a retired Air Force first sergeant, was born in Pennsylvania but now calls San Antonio home. She graduated from Ashford University with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology.

Throughout her career in the Defense Department, Reyes has worked in a myriad of positions within the EO community.

"I began working in the Equal Opportunity field as an assistant and have worked my way through the ranks," she said.

When asked about the role EO has on the mission, Reyes discussed how the Air Force promotes a culture where Air Force members are able to rise to their highest potential.

"We spend more time with those we work with than we do with those we choose to love in our life, so we need to be happy while at work in order to be effective in accomplishing the important mission that takes place at Hanscom Air Force Base," she said.

Reyes also discussed how she enjoys meeting with military and civilian newcomers and learning where they're from.

"Because it's those dynamics that bring diversity to the team and makes us unique," she said. "And when we appreciate those opinions, and value the different perspectives that people have because of their life experience, that makes us better as a team."

Since being hired, Reyes has been busy acclimating to the structure of Hanscom with an air base group as well as multiple program executive offices located together.

"Everyone had told me that Hanscom is a unique environment," she said. "One of my first goals is to better understand the structure here so that I can better assist individuals to accomplish their goals -- to be happy and healthy in the workplace."

Many programs exist within the EO realm to nurture healthy environments. One program the new director would like to further promote is Alternative Dispute Resolution, also known as ADR.

"The ADR program is a proven and effective way to help civilian and military personnel resolve work-related issues in a timely, private and confidential manner," she said. "Workplace disputes should be resolved promptly and at the lowest level possible."

She points out that workplace disputes will only disrupt the morale and productivity in an organization if not addressed.

"Our team is steadfast in ensuring each and every member of Team Hanscom is provided the dignity and respect they deserve," Reyes said.

For further information about the 66th Air Base Group Equal Opportunity office, visit http://www.hanscom.af.mil/units/equalopportunity/index.asp or call 781-225-6397.