2023

General Jacqueline Van Ovost

Commander, U.S. Transport Command, DOD

“Start by believing in yourself. Throughout my career, I’ve faced numerous challenges and moments of doubt, but the one constant was my belief in my capabilities.”

In your opinion, what qualities make a “Power Woman”?

A ‘power woman’ embodies a combination of resilience, determination, integrity, and a deep commitment to service. She inspires and uplifts those around her and paves the way forward for future generations. Her actions may go unseen or unacknowledged, but her dedication never wavers. It’s this mosaic of qualities that, in my eyes, defines a true power woman.

What do you think is the number one action we as a society can take toward empowering women and gender equality? (e.g. affirmative action)?

We need more women mentors — representation is critical! When faced with adversity, having a network of relatable support is essential to resiliency and growth. I am so grateful for my peer mentors Col. Pam Melroy, Col. Monica Smith, and Maj. Gen. Tally Leavitt. Relationships with them were two-fold. On one hand, we were able to share information, skills, and techniques, but on the other, we helped each other overcome challenges. It’s all about building the most capable and effective teams. We need everyone from all backgrounds to do that.

Do you think that asking previous salary requirements in job interviews contributes to the pay gap between women and men? NY State outlawed this practice, should it be nationwide?

In the Air Force, our salaries are not based on gender but rank, time in service, special duties, and in some cases, performance.

What was the defining moment or experience in your life that led you to where you are today?

Growing up, my parents owned a flying operation, and when I wasn’t helping sweep the hangars or cleaning spark plugs, I was daydreaming of jumping in one of the airplanes and taking the controls. Whether I could see over the dashboard or not, I wanted to play with the buttons and knobs and learn everything about flying. My passion for aviation, and the science and physics behind it, is what led me to a career in the Air Force. I set my sights on the Air Force Academy and graduated with a degree in aeronautical engineering.

“Legislators, priests, philosophers, writers, and scientists have striven to show that the subordinate position of woman is willed in heaven and advantageous on earth.” Simone de eauvoir. Is this still a major stumbling block on the 21st century road to equality?

This year marks 75 years since the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act, which desegregated the military and allowed women and minorities to serve in all four branches. Since then, women have continued to overcome barriers and blaze trails for those to follow. In more recent years, we’ve seen our first woman Deputy Secretary of Defense, Kathleen Hicks, and the first and second woman-led military branches, Adm. Linda Fagan and Adm. Lisa Franchetti, to name a few.

What is your mantra? What phrase or parabel best describes your approach right now?

Honor those who came before, lift those beside you, and guide those behind you. Every step I’ve taken is because of the lessons and legacies left by those who came before. Their sacrifices and wisdom form the foundation upon which we build. Then there’s the incredible team standing beside me. Their strength, dedication, and insights remind me that we are never truly alone in our endeavors. And, of course, we must always look to the future for those coming behind us. We must pave a path for them, inspire them, and mentor them. Overtime the seemingly impossible roads can become well-traveled.

How would you describe the changes in the political landscape for women over the past five years?

The Department of Defense has made strides in revising policies and removing barriers to long-term, gratifying service in uniform. Services have been authorized to increase paid, parental leave from six weeks to twelve for primary caregivers and extend leave for secondary caregivers to better support the entire military family. We continue to redesign uniforms and equipment, from body armor to flight suits, to better fit a woman’s body, even throughout pregnancy. We’re increasing support to nursing mothers by making lactation facilities and breast milk storage more accessible.

Women are often placed in binaries. Strong and emotionless or weak and sensitive. How do you subvert these limitations and connect to all sides of womanhood?

These binaries not only oversimplify women but undervalue a person’s true, complex nature, regardless of gender. We must ‘own ourselves’ and embrace all facets of who we are, not just the parts that fit neatly into society’s expectations. Our military, for example, thrives not because we all fit into predefined boxes but because of the diversity of thought, personalities, and skills each of us possesses. By valuing and nurturing these differences, we build a force that is agile, resilient, and better equipped to face any challenge. So, own and take pride in what makes you, you.

If you could have someone else’s job for a day, who and what would it be? Why?

Public school teacher. Being a teacher for a day would help me understand this new generation of talented individuals, further developing my teaching, coaching, and communication skills. Because we are all depending on the next generation to continue to support and defend the Constitution and our way of life—our freedom is not free and should never be taken for granted.

What advice would you give to any aspiring Power Women?

Start by believing in yourself. Throughout my career, I’ve faced numerous challenges and moments of doubt, but the one constant was my belief in my capabilities. We live in a world where, unfortunately, not everyone will understand or support your vision, but you must remember that only you have the final say on what you can or cannot achieve. If you let others define your limits, you’ll inevitably be confined by them.

What steps do you take to obtain a healthy work/life balance?

Balancing work and personal life require intention. I prioritize tasks, delegate when possible, set clear boundaries, and always allocate time for self-care and family. Flexibility and continual reflection guide my approach, aiming to lead by example and promote a balanced lifestyle.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Amelia Earhart. Her audacity, unyielding spirit, and commitment to breaking the boundaries of her time serve as an enduring beacon of inspiration. Amelia’s passion wasn’t simply about flying; it was about proving that with determination, skill, and a pioneering spirit, anyone—regardless of their gender—could achieve great heights. Her story is a reminder that believing in one’s dreams is the first and most vital step to realizing them.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Keys to a fulfilling life:
1. Believe in yourself
2. Take care of others
3. Have self-discipline – may require you to make sacrifices today to achieve future goals
Follow these and the rest will take care of itself.

What is your favorite book (fiction or non-fiction)?

Many books have influenced me greatly; however, if I had to pick one, it would be Simon Sinek’s Start with Why. The book delves into the importance of understanding our purpose and the reasons behind what we do in business and life. Sinek’s philosophy of beginning with the ‘Why’ resonates with the ethos of leadership and service. This principle is also crucial to our military as it arms our service members with clarity, motivation, and direction. It’s a book I’d recommend to anyone, irrespective of their profession, as it challenges us to think beyond the obvious and find deeper meaning in our actions.

What do you most value in your friends?

What I value most in friendships, and really in any relationship, is empowerment. And to the next generation of ‘power women,’ find those who will push you beyond your perceived limitations. Who will remind you of your strengths when you doubt them and give you the confidence to rise above challenges. In your journey through life, you’ll face many obstacles, and having friends who care about you and your goals while amplifying your strengths and mitigating your weaknesses will be invaluable.

Which trait do you most deplore in yourself? In others?

If I had to pinpoint one trait I occasionally grapple with, it would be insecurity. Despite my years of service, the positions I’ve held, and the responsibilities I shoulder, there are times that I feel like an imposter, questioning if I truly belong. However, when this happens, I remind myself that I am where I am for a reason. My experiences, the challenges I’ve faced, and the decisions I’ve made have all guided me here. And while these feelings of doubt might never entirely disappear, they serve as a reminder that humility, constant learning, and reflection are critical, no matter where you are in life.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

While agreeability can help build relationships and foster harmonious environments, it can also stifle diversity of thought. We must value differing opinions as they challenge the status quo, push us out of our comfort zones, and drive us to assess our strategies and approaches.

“Amelia Earhart. Her audacity, unyielding spirit, and commitment to breaking the boundaries of her time serve as an enduring beacon of inspiration. Her story is a reminder that believing in one’s dreams is the first and most vital step to realizing them.”