2nd Lt. Michelle Willett is Warrior of the Week

  • Published
  • By Meredith Mingledorff
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  

Name: Michelle Willett

Rank: Second Lieutenant

Duty Title: Operations Engineer, 461st Flight Test Squadron

Hometown: West Islip, New York

When did you join the Air Force?
I was commissioned through AFROTC at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in May 2010.

Why did you join the Air Force?
As a young child, I originally became interested in the military since I was fascinated by aviation and wanted to be an astronaut when I grew up. As I got older and learned more about the mission of the Air Force, I realized that I had a strong desire to be a part of a larger purpose. My desire to serve was solidified after 9/11; my father worked in the World Trade Center. I saw joining the Air Force as a way to follow my childhood dreams and, at the same time, make a difference in the world.

What do you like most about your job?
The highlight of my job is working with the future of our Air Force every day. The Joint Strike Fighter will redefine the role of fighter aircraft in our military, and it's truly exciting to contribute to a monumental program. It fills me with great pride to know that when I'm older, I can look back and say that I played a role in the early stages of its developmental flight test.

What is your favorite thing to do around the area?
My favorite thing to do in the area is travel with my husband. I lived in the same East Coast town while growing up, so I enjoy the opportunity to see different parts of California and the surrounding area. Being so close to Los Angeles, we can't resist all of the "touristy" activities.

Warrior Highlights: 
Lt. Willett's recent work led to an AFFTC tanker clearance allowing flight test F-35s to refuel using the KC-10. She has been a solid contributor to dozens of flight sciences test missions in the control room and has given JSF briefs to students and visitors from our community on numerous occasions. Lt. Willett's technical skills, perseverance and character make her an outstanding model for her coworkers and key contributor to our flight test mission.

-Capt. Jennifer Hines