AFMC Sees Progress in Implementation of Diversity, Inclusion Efforts

The Air Force Materiel Command continues to make progress in implementing various diversity, equity and inclusion activities across the organization.

The AFMC is leading the U.S. Air Force’s goal of ensuring that all uniformed and non-uniformed personnel have the “right environment, resources and support” to thrive.

After the death of George Floyd in 2020, the Department of Defense reviewed its policies and procedures to identify and take steps to address systemic barriers related to race, ethnicity and gender, among others.

Since then, the AFMC’s efforts included hosting sensing sessions with airmen across the command and conducting a survey across the organization to determine problematic areas across installations and centers, the USAF said.

According to AFMC Commander Gen. Arnold Bunch Jr., a past Potomac Officers Club speaker, the group is committed to supporting airmen and civilians for them to succeed in a “diverse and highly inclusive environment.”

“I want AFMC to lead the Air Force in this area. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to the success of our command, and we are continuing our drive, ensuring all of our Airmen have the opportunity to perform to their full potential,” said Bunch.

In October 2020, Bunch identified 12 primary focus areas that set the baseline for initiatives already running across the command. The ongoing efforts include training, talent management, civilian hiring and mentorship.

One of the first steps that the AFMC took was to create Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Councils, whose members include center and installation leaders.

In collaboration with commanders, the councils are implementing AFMC policies at the local level and provide a mechanism for feedback to headquarters teams regarding trends and needs related to diversity, equity and inclusion.