In a recent conversation with Dr Julie Morrow, the faculty advisor for the USAFA AIAA student section, she suggested four areas where the AOG Space Chapter could help strengthen cadets' space-related activities:

1. Speakers. They are interested in having graduates or others with "real world" experience help the cadets understand what to expect after graduation. Cadets are willing to spend time in the evening with interesting speakers. I have arranged for our Hughes point man in Colorado Springs to present a very well crafted discussion of the real-world impacts of satellite communications on military doctrine and operations. Any other suggestions?

2. ABET. This is the organization which oversees the accreditation process, and which requires the curriculum to reflect "customer needs". Dr. Morrow believes that the AOG Chapter could help define what the Air Force needs for the space-related parts of the curriculum, and what capabilities and expertise a grad should have. For example, we have suggested that an appreciation for system engineering and translating operational needs into technical requirements are badly needed skills, both in the AF and in industry. Any other ideas?

3. Cadets like to work on "real-world" problems. Do you know of any space-related challenges facing the AF or industry that cadets could sink their teeth into?

4. Career insights. Cadets need exposure to what officers do after graduation. Can you suggest any interesting ways to relate cadets to your professional experiences?

These specific requests augment the other activities we have suggested and are working on, such as field trips, displays, field training opportunities, contacts with local groups, etc.

I would also welcome your help in organizing any of these areas. Are any of you willing to act as coordinator for specific functions (speakers, displays, trips, career support, etc)? We need your help to make this activity work!

I expect that the next issue of Checkpoints will have an article about the Space Chapter, and may generate additional interest and participation.

At a time when elements in Washington are again questioning the commitment of the AF to space, supporting space-related activities at USAFA is the right thing to do.

Thanks again for your help.

Stan Rosen, '69