NDIA lauds Wilson, welcomes Barrett nomination

Barbara Barrett

ARLINGTON, VA -- The National Defense Industrial Association issues this statement regarding the service of Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson and the nomination of her successor, Barbara Barrett:

NDIA commends Heather Wilson on her service and leadership as secretary of the Air Force. Her steadfast focus on Air Force priorities included establishing a baseline and beginning the critical investments for what’s now called the Air Force We Need, 386 operational squadrons that can fully implement the National Defense Strategy. 

Wilson’s hard work in the Pentagon, on Capitol Hill and across the Air Force will pay dividends for our airmen and the nation while providing her successor with the momentum necessary for success.

NDIA welcomes the president’s pending nomination of Barbara Barrett as the next secretary of the Air Force, who will take the baton from Wilson and continue to accelerate. 

Barrett is eminently qualified, the right person at the right time to move our Air Force further down the path to regaining readiness while rebuilding and reinforcing its position as the greatest air and space power force on the globe.  Her success in business, government and as a trained astronaut along with her experience as the chair of the Aerospace Corporation make her uniquely positioned to lead our Air Force into the future without gaps or loss of momentum.

When it receives Barrett’s nomination, the Senate should act rapidly to confirm her, enabling the smooth, seamless leadership transition the Air Force requires to continue the drive to the Air Force We Need.