New Mexico State University’s Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps commander was promoted last month to colonel.
Col. Wendy Woodard has been commander of the Air Force ROTC Detachment 505 Pistoleros since 2018. Before coming to NMSU, she was at Joint Base San Antonio – Randolph, where she was an instructor pilot.
Woodard became a reservist in 2008 but transitioned back into active duty in order to take her position as head of aerospace studies at NMSU.
“Typically, those detachment commanders who are promoted are moved to another job even if they have not completed their full detachment commander tour,” Woodard said. “However, I am an unusual case, since I’m officially an Air Force Reservist serving on active duty orders for this assignment. This means that I get to stay in place here at NMSU.”
Woodard’s duties include leading and overseeing all training activities and academic courses for all current cadets. Woodard is also the department head and professor of aerospace studies for all senior level cadets.
“Having a third year with them means I get to see and hopefully impact their continued development as officer candidates, students, and citizens. It is my hope that they will be proud of all that they have achieved during their cadet years, and I’m grateful to have been able to be a small part of that development.”
Woodard began her service at NMSU with two main goals, recruitment and building community relations.
“This is a true gift because I am able to continue building relationships with the community, university and especially the cadets in Detachment 505 at NMSU,” Woodard said.
NMSU ROTC is located in Young Hall. Students who are interested may contact the Air Force ROTC office at afdet505@nmsu.edu or 575-646-2136.