National Society of Black Engineers Honors SPAWAR for Diversity Leadership

San Diego (NNS) -- The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command's (SPAWAR) commitment to diversity programs was recognized by the National Society of Black Engineers March 31.

SPAWAR received this year's Golden Torch Award for Government Diversity Leadership for contributions to diversity programs at the command, impact in local communities and commitment to furthering education in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

The award recognizes excellence among technical professionals and corporate, government and academic leaders. It illustrates the possibilities that can be cultivated through leadership support and commitment to diversity initiatives.

As a part of his focus on diversity initiatives, Rear Adm. Patrick H. Brady, SPAWAR commander, created an affinity champion program, which allows senior executives and flag officers to more directly support the growth and success of the command's minority and affinity groups. This program is designed to help cultivate a dialog so that leaders can better understand and address issues, struggles and challenges minority groups may face. It aims to increase visibility, help recruitment, improve recognition and retention, and provided valuable insights into diversity at SPAWAR.

"The bottom line is that diverse backgrounds and experience drives agility and innovation," said Brady. "The Navy needs to reflect the face of the nation it represents and must engage with communities for the best talent."

The award recognized SPAWAR's dedication to working in the community and nurturing the next generation of scientist and engineers. Last year, in addition to in-class time, SPAWAR professionals in Charleston S.C., Hawaii, New Orleans, San Diego and Tidewater, Va., provided more than 10,000 hours of their time for STEM outreach. This included coaching more than 80 robotics teams, creating signature STEM events, mentoring students and judging science fairs.

Additionally, SPAWAR and its system centers partner with the National Society of Black Engineers and other organizations to provide college students with summer internship opportunities.

Kenneth Johnson, technical director for the Sea Warrior Program, accepted the award on SPAWAR's behalf at a ceremony honoring all the awardees.

As the Navy's Information Dominance systems command, SPAWAR develops, delivers and sustains communications and information capabilities for warfighters, keeping them connected anytime, anywhere. With a space support activity, two system centers and through partnerships with three program executive offices, SPAWAR provides the hardware and software needed to execute Navy missions.

For more news from Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/spawar/.