KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Dr. Victoria Coleman, Chief Scientist of the U.S. Air Force, visited Kadena Air Base, Japan, during a tour of military installations within the Indo-Pacific Sept. 25-28, 2022.

Dr. Coleman serves as the Chief Scientific Adviser to the Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Chief of Staff, and Chief of Space Operations, providing assessments on a wide range of scientific and technical issues affecting the department’s mission.

In this role, she identifies and analyzes technical issues, bringing them to the attention of department leaders. She interacts with other operational commanders, combatant commands, acquisition, and science and technology communities to address cross-organizational issues and provide solutions.

Prior to accepting the role of Chief Scientist, Dr. Coleman served as the 22nd Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency where she oversaw a large suite of innovative programs. Among the various units she visited here, she made time to stop by the Innovation Lab to observe current Shogun Spark projects.

“Having the Air Force Chief Scientist visit was incredible as she gave us a strategic level of understanding on the direction of innovation and product development for the entire enterprise,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jason Yunker, 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels operations section chief. “She also was able to connect us with valuable resources to further this [innovative] culture not only at Kadena, but the entire Spark Cell Community.”

The Chief Scientist also interacts with other services and the Office of the Secretary of Defense on issues affecting the Department of the Air Force’s technical enterprise. She serves on the Executive Committee of the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board and is the Principal Science and Technology Representative of the Air Force to the civilian scientific and engineering community and the public at large.

Dr. Coleman has more than 36 years of experience in computer science and technology, including as both an academic leader and industry executive.

Shogun Warriors were given the opportunity to ask Dr. Coleman questions, exchange strategic insights and showcase Kadena’s mission operations. While here, Dr. Coleman stressed the importance of innovation within the U.S. Air Force, and recognized 18th Wing Airmen for accomplishments made toward a free and open Indo-Pacific.