Air University's role critical to upcoming AETC Symposium

Published Jan. 8, 2010
By Scott Knuteson
Air University Public Affairs

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- As the "Intellectual and Leadership Center of the Air Force," Air University is gearing up for prime time at the 2010 Air Education and Training Command Symposium, to be held Jan. 14-15 in San Antonio.

This year's symposium, in conjunction with the Alamo Chapter Air Force Association Exposition, is expected to draw about 3,400 attendees.

Air University's role in the event will be multifaceted, given that the institution provides the full spectrum of Air Force education for officers, enlisted and civilian personnel throughout their careers. Of the estimated 90 lectures scheduled, about 40 will be presented or moderated by Air University personnel.

The lectures comprise eight distinct seminar tracks, running the gamut of topics from perennials like leadership to cutting-edge innovations like immersive virtual reality education. Speakers will also delve into issues of international significance, spanning the globe from North Korea to Israel and Africa to Afghanistan. Talks will also examine the implications of space as a contested environment and touch on the realm of remotely piloted aircraft.

"Air University's seminar tracks are instrumental in providing a robust, joint outlook on educating our nation's Airmen," Lt. Gen. Allen Peck, AU commander, said.

Conference planners from AETC have been accepting and evaluating lecture proposals since the conclusion of last year's event, which saw popular seminars packed to standing room only. This year may be no different, as the lecturers seek to address issues of immediate relevance to the AETC community and the Air Force at large.

One such lecture is "Dealing with a Nuclear Iran," by Dr. Chris Hemmer, professor of International Security Studies at Air University's Air War College.

At a time of strong rhetoric from Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and continued international pressure for that government to curtail its nuclear ambitions, Dr. Hemmer said he hopes his lecture will prompt Airmen to think about how policy in that region could impact the types of missions the Air Force carries out in the future.

"I hope my presentation can help contribute to the continuing professional military education of the broad cross section of the Air Force attending the symposium," he said. "This is an opportunity to continue the mission of Air War College and Air University by interacting with a wider Air Force audience."

Though he teaches in a classroom at Maxwell, Dr. Hemmer emphasized how the symposium is one way Airmen can further their knowledge outside traditional venues.

"Education is an ongoing process," Dr. Hemmer said. "It's not just something you do when you are selected to attend a particular school."