Heather Warden
Bossier City,LA
Summary
Senior Human Resources and Personnel Operations Leader with 24 years of progressive Air Force experience in personnel management, executive advising, protocol, training, readiness, and organizational leadership. Expert in personnel programs, employee relations, performance management, and administrative operations. Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex programs, resolve sensitive issues, and support senior executives. Extensive experience in counseling, training, crisis response, and compliance oversight. Skilled in managing high‑visibility events, coordinating with multiple agencies, and ensuring mission readiness.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Human Resources Manager
United States Air Force, USAF
Bossier City, Louisiana
07.2001 - Current
- Directed personnel operations for large organizations, ensuring compliance with Air Force policies and federal regulations.
- Managed personnel programs including assignments, promotions, separations, retirements, evaluations, and benefits.
- Supervised personnel teams and Commander’s Support Staff (CSS) functions; ensured accuracy of personnel data and records.
- Led in‑ and out‑processing, casualty assistance, retention programs, and career counseling.
- Conducted audits, inspections, and quality control reviews to maintain data integrity.
- Performed Personnel Support for Contingency Operations (PERSCO) during deployments and exercises.
- Delivered training on personnel systems, readiness, and administrative processes.
- Advised officers and Airmen on personnel programs, career progression, and benefit entitlements.
- Managed personnel readiness programs, ensuring deployability and accountability.
- Oversaw administrative actions including Article 15s, UIFs, separations, and disciplinary processes.
Protocol Specialist
United States Air Force, USAF
Fairbanks, Alaska
09.2024 - 07.2025
- Execute high‑level protocol operations supporting senior leaders, distinguished visitors, and official ceremonies.
- Coordinate executive events, conferences, and travel, ensuring compliance with protocol standards.
- Manage scheduling, administrative support, and communication for senior leadership engagements.
- Support base‑level protocol operations including ceremonies, DV visits, and official functions.
- Ensure flawless execution of events requiring confidentiality, precision, and cross‑agency coordination.
First Sergeant
United States Air Force, USAF
Fairbanks, Alaska
06.2019 - 09.2024
- Served as the commander’s senior enlisted advisor for all matters affecting the health, morale, welfare, discipline, and readiness of assigned personnel.
- Led unit programs for professional development, recognition, discipline, and quality force management.
- Oversaw deployment readiness, personnel accountability, and crisis response actions.
- Coordinated with base agencies to resolve complex personnel issues and ensure member support.
- Managed dormitory operations, housing concerns, and quality‑of‑life programs.
- Delivered training on leadership, standards, customs and courtesies, and organizational expectations.
- Represented the commander at base meetings, councils, and official functions.
- Conducted investigations, processed administrative actions, and ensured equitable discipline.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Human Resources Management
Community College of The Air Force
Montgomery, AL06-2010
Skills
- 24 years of honorable military service
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Experienced in high‑visibility, high‑pressure environments
- Skilled in conflict resolution and crisis management
- Extensive experience advising senior leaders and managing diverse teams
Certification
Professional Management Certification
Timeline
Protocol Specialist
United States Air Force, USAF
09.2024 - 07.2025
First Sergeant
United States Air Force, USAF
06.2019 - 09.2024
Human Resources Manager
United States Air Force, USAF
07.2001 - Current
Associate of Applied Science - Human Resources Management
Community College of The Air Force