CAFB reps learn about AFWERX

AUSTIN, Texas - Air Force personnel gathered in Austin Dec. 13-14 for a Spark Cell workshop to learn about the Defense Department’s innovation ecosystem, and best ways to design and grow the overall culture of innovation throughout the services. Spark Cell, hosted by the AFWERX-Austin hub team, was designed to help grow the network of willing collaborators and share ideas and approaches that foster a results-driven culture of innovation, and the ability to solve some of the AF’s toughest challenges. AFWERX was envisioned by Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson. “Every Airman has the opportunity to shape the future force and help us maintain our competitive advantage over our adversaries,” said Maj. Tony Perez, AFWERX Spark director. The workshop included classes on innovation fundamentals, tools, team-building, and using Spark Cell lessons learned case studies. Representatives from across Air Education and Training Command (AETC) attended the workshop, including a Spark Cell director from Columbus AFB, Miss. Attendees used the workshop as a “way to tighten our communications and work directly with AFWERX and Pilot Training Next in order to move forward as a team on specific projects and requirements,” said Maj. Ryan Brewer of the Columbus-based 14th Flying Training Wing. Experiencing AFWERX collaboration efforts with industry and learning about contracting and acquisition processes was critical learning of the workshop. (Source: Air Education and Training Command 12/18/18)