SALT LAKE CITY -- After more than a year of research and collaboration, the Utah Air National Guard (UTANG) unveiled its 2018-2028 Strategic Plan. The comprehensive document includes the organization’s mission and vision statements, as well as four specific goals.
In the publication’s opening note, Maj. Gen. Jefferson Burton, Utah National Guard Adjutant General, explained that the plan provides a tangible framework for approaching challenges and opportunities.
“We must be strategic in our thinking and laser focused on the competencies required to achieve our objectives,” he said.
The first goal listed references cultivating a culture of readiness. This represents a shift from “static readiness” to sustained contribution.
The second goal, sustaining and growing missions, is twofold: becoming an “Air Refueling Center of Excellence,” and posturing to accept future cyber Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions.
The third goal outlined in the plan is to modernize and recapitalize existing infrastructure in order to keep up with the demands of today’s Air Force.
The fourth goal is to foster strategic partnerships, which includes strengthening bonds with federal, state, and local entities.
Brig. Gen. Christine Burckle, Utah Air National Guard Commander, said the plan represents an overdue evaluation of key priorities.
“The 21st Century presents a very complex, competitive world,” she said. “The Utah Air National Guard must continue to adapt to new challenges and opportunities while maintaining a steadfast commitment to core mission areas.”
Though publishing the document represents a significant accomplishment in its own right, Burckle said it’s just beginning.
“We still have a lot of work ahead of us,” she noted, referring to the next phase of the process, which includes creating specific action plans for each of the initiatives. “I have no doubt our Airmen are up for the challenge, and I’m equally certain today’s strategic efforts will pay dividends for the Utah Air National Guard well into the future.”