WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio (AFLCMC) -- The annual Product Support Manager (PSM) Forum brings together professionals to discuss current and emerging topics related to product support and provides a chance for networking and professional development. The 2023 edition was held at Wright-Patterson AFB on June 27- 29.
The forum had a targeted focus each day:
- Day 1: A New Reality
- Day 2: War Readiness
- Day 3: Sustaining the Future-Accelerating Transformation.
Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall provided the opening keynote address. Dr. Michael Bayer of Defense Acquisition University (DAU) served as moderator. Other speakers were AFLCMC commander, Lt. Gen, Shaun Morris, AFLCMC logistics director, Lansen Conley, and Lt. Gen. Tom D. Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection for Headquarters Air Force.
Between speeches, networking and technology updates, PEO and ALC roundtables gave attendees a chance to ask questions and hear from experts on life cycle management in practical application to the USAF mission.
During his keynote, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall addressed how the acquisition career field and daily work of PSMs intersects with the seven Air Force Operational Imperatives (OIs). The OIs help direct the USAF to deter conflict and protect air superiority against pacing challenges.
A large portion of Kendall’s address focused on China and that nation’s accelerated investments in programs and technology that can target aircraft, airfields and satellites.
Morris reminded forum attendees of their importance to the Air Force enterprise. He also addressed questions about real-time logistics issues with the global supply chain and how this impacts the contracting process. Morris also talked about the focus of his role as Commander of AFLCMC – and how it is his job to ensure the Center’s mission to “organize, train and equip” the Warfighter is completed. With that, one of the big initiatives this year is hiring thousands of qualified external candidates to fill critical roles within the Center.
The Forum closed with remarks from Conley and a nod of appreciation for the attention and attendance. Details for the next PSM Forum are forthcoming.
The PSM Forum planning committee is always looking for event feedback, topic ideas and speaker suggestions. Send comments, concerns and ideas to Michael Speed at michael.speed.1@us.af.mil.
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