EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Innovation is woven into the history of the U.S. Air Force. From humble roots in a bicycle shop in Ohio to the creation and employment of advanced air frames, U.S. Airmen have consistently thought of new ways to get the job done.
In the spirit of the Air Force’s innovating heritage, the 354th Fighter Wing is accepting proposals for this year’s Pioneer Funds program.
“The goal of these funds is to lower the barrier to innovation in the 354th FW,” said Col. Benjamin Bishop, 354th FW commander. “These funds help us bring to life ideas that will make Eielson Airmen more efficient, lethal and ready as we pioneer the airpower frontier.”
The Pioneer Funds program provides Icemen at all levels an opportunity to fund ideas they believe will increase productivity, simplify current processes, and give time back to Airmen.
“The application process starts when the member contacts our squadron pioneer email with their idea, or routes the innovative idea through their unit chain of command,” said Senior Airman Annalou Cumpio, 354th Comptroller Squadron financial analyst technician. “The submissions should include a cost estimate, when the item or equipment is required, and a detailed justification on how and why the idea will help our Airmen in the long run. The squadron commanders have the final authority to approve or deny ideas.”
The wing previously held the Pioneer Funds initiative in 2018, and squadrons around the base were able to take advantage of the program to fund many different ideas.
“An example of an innovation that was funded last year is the driving simulator for the fire department,” said Bishop. “This simulator allows our firefighters to practice driving in any weather condition while avoiding the risks of injury or damaging equipment, while at the same time saving money on fuel.”
This year’s Pioneer Funds have the potential to bring even more forward-thinking ideas to Eielson, and Bishop encourages all interested individuals to submit their proposals.
“As we move toward preparing for great power competition, it is important we find ways to innovate and modernize,” said Bishop. “As Airmen, innovation is in our DNA. Innovation helps us avoid complacency, continue to break barriers and stay ahead of our adversaries.”
While proposals for Pioneer Funds are accepted year-round, those seeking funding for fiscal year 2019 can submit their proposals to 354FW.SquadronInnovation.Base@us.af.mil by March 15, 2019.