As we wrap up Women’s History Month this March, we would like to take time to reflect on the incredible achievements and contributions of women through the decades. While it’s important to recognize the importance of women in all fields, we’d like to focus on one area that often flies under the radar; women in the defense industry. From military service to public policy, women play an essential role in the security and operation of our nation. Let’s take a closer look at how women have impacted the defense sector and how they continue to break barriers.
Blast to the Past: A Historical Look at Women in Defense
Women’s involvement in the defense industry goes back much further than many might realize. During World War II, women were called to fill critical roles such as manufacturing, logistics, and other non-combat positions. Many people recognize Rosie the Riveter, an iconic image that emerged during the war to represent women working in factories, building everything from aircrafts to ammunition. These women were essential to the war effort, but their involvement and contributions were often overlooked in the years that followed.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 350,000 women served in WWII in these roles. Although they were crucial to the war efforts, once the war ended most women were expected to give up their careers for the men returning while they returned to their then-traditional roles.
Women in Leadership and Innovation Today
Fast forward to the 21st century, and women have increasingly taken on important roles in the defense industry. In 2023, 40% of senior leadership roles in defense firms were held by women. This is in contrast to 2000, where it was as low as 18%.
Pioneers like General Ann E. Dunwoody have paved the way for women in the U.S. Army, breaking barriers and setting historic milestones. She made history as the first woman to achieve four-star rank in the U.S. Army. Over the course of her distinguished career, she earned two Master’s degrees – one in logistics management and another in national resource strategy. In 1992, she became the first female battalion commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, and in 2000, she was appointed the first female general at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. General Dunwoody went on to lead the largest global logistics command in Army history, earning multiple prestigious decorations including the Distinguished Service Medal and the Defense Superior Service Medal. After an exceptional 33-year career, she was sworn in as the head of the U.S. Army Material Command at Fort Belvoir, Virginia in 2008. In 2012 she retired, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, achievement, and dedication.
Notable Women-led Defense Organizations
In addition to individual contributions, many women-led organizations play a vital role in advocating for greater inclusion and empowering women within the defense industry. One such organization is Women Impacting Public Policy (WIPP), which is dedicated to advocating for the economic and political interests of women. Through public advocacy, educational initiatives, and networking opportunities, WIPP works to break down the barriers that women face and ensures their issues are heard at the legislative level.
Women in Defense (WID) is another important organization that focuses on supporting the professional development and advancement of women in defense and national security. They provide a platform for mentorship, networking, and leadership development that creates opportunities for women to connect and elevate their careers in the defense sector. WID fosters a supportive community of women who are passionate about driving innovation and policy changes across all local chapters in the country.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s essential to recognize the contributions of women in the defense industry – past, present and future. From the heroes of WWII to today’s trailblazing leaders in defense, women have always been an integral part in the defense sector. JetCo Federal remains involved in important organizations like WIPP and WID because they are vital for fostering a stronger and more inclusive workforce. While many challenges remain, women continue to shape the future of defense in powerful and transformative ways.
