SMC Commander Honored for Contributions to Aerospace Community

  • Published
  • By Alicia Garges
  • SMC Public Affairs
Lieutenant General Ellen Pawlikowski, Space and Missile Systems Center commander was among nine women honored this year by Women in Aerospace for her contributions to the aerospace community. She received her award at a dinner held in Arlington, Va., Nov. 1.

The general won the Lifetime Achievement award in recognition of her inspiration of future leaders and her lifelong dedication, selflessness and commitment to furthering the advancement of opportunities for women in aerospace. Other women who were honored at this year's awards dinner include Gwynne Shotwell, president of Space X, and U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson.

In a command-wide announcement, Gen. William Shelton, Air Force Space Commander said, "Please join me in congratulating Lt. Gen. Pawlikowski on being selected to receive the Women in Aerospace 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award! This award acknowledges a lifetime of contributions to the aerospace industry and to the advancement of women in aerospace. Selection for this internationally competitive award is an honor and a testament to her talents, hard work and dedication."

A graduate of New Jersey Institute of Technology, the general entered the Air Force in 1978 through the ROTC program. She has served as the SMC commander since June 2011. Her previous assignments include SMC vice commander, National Reconnaissance Office deputy director, Military Satellite Communications Systems Wing commander and Airborne Laser System Program Office director.

According to the Women in Aerospace website, the lifetime achievement award is presented for noteworthy contributions during a career spanning at least 25 years, commitment to professional growth and serving as a role model or mentor who shows dedication to the advancement of women in aerospace.