A role model can influence and motivate you to become the best version of yourself. Maybe it’s your boss who supports you when you offer innovative ideas to solve problems…maybe you have a coach who encourages you to practice your fundamental skills…maybe you look up to a certain teacher who inspires you to engage your knowledge and then learn more. Women, and men, from around the world, of all ages and stages, have told me that because I became the first woman USAF Thunderbird pilot in history, that I am their role model. It is humbling to hear, and it’s a responsibility that I take very seriously. I am always particularly moved when someone views me as his or her role model, regardless of my being the first woman to achieve something. I think it is important to understand that people are much more than their inherent characteristics; I believe role models should be admired more for how they live, their values, than for who they are. As USAF fighter pilot Capt. Sarah Gregory recently put it, “You don't have to have a female role model to do it! There doesn't have to be a woman who came before you or who did it first in order for you to do it. Set your goals, find people to help you—whether they look like you or not doesn't matter… keep driving towards your goal.” Wise words, indeed. Who’s your role model and why?
