Heather Wheeler
Maxwell Air Force Base
Summary
Results-driven Program Management Professional with extensive experience leading cross-functional teams and executing complex organizational initiatives. Proven ability to manage multimillion-dollar programs, streamline operations, and drive strategic outcomes. Skilled in stakeholder engagement, logistics coordination, and performance analysis. Recognized for improving efficiency, fostering collaboration, and delivering projects on time and within scope.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Analyst
Huntington Ingalls Industries
Maxwell Air Force Base
08.2024 - Current
- Coordinate operations for Blue Horizons, a 10-month innovation fellowship that directly reports to the Air Force Chief of Staff (CEO equivalent) and awards Master’s degrees.
- Manage and synchronize program timelines, ensuring project deliverables meet client expectations and organizational goals for 77 annual masters classes.
- Develop and manage schedules, contracts, and purchasing activities to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency for 10 projects, totaling $7 million dollars.
- Serve as liaison between project management, leadership, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment with strategic objectives.
- Prepare executive-level briefings and performance reports for 75 senior leaders (vice president equivalent).
- Enhanced project delivery efficiency by 20% through improved scheduling and stakeholder communication.
Special Projects Coordinator
Department of the Air Force
Maxwell Air Force Base
10.2022 - 08.2024
- Led special initiatives to enhance curriculum design, assessment methods, and program delivery across multiple academic departments.
- Streamlined logistics and operations for the National Security Forum, hosting 125 civic leaders; reduced workload by 30% through the development of a strategic planning tool.
- Managed international student travel and engagement for Regional Security Studies, strengthening partnerships and cultural understanding across 30+ allied nations.
Protocol Specialist
Department of the Air Force
Maxwell Air Force Base
11.2021 - 07.2023
- Designed and managed high-visibility events for senior executives, dignitaries, and foreign leaders, ensuring adherence to protocol and organizational standards.
- Coordinated large-scale conferences, ceremonies, and executive visits with customized itineraries, logistics, and audiovisual support.
- Served as trusted advisor to senior leadership on stakeholder engagement and event strategy.
Assistant Chief, Force Development
United States Air Force Reserve
Hill Air Force Base
09.2019 - 11.2021
- Directed education and training programs for 1,200+ personnel, ensuring alignment with workforce development goals and compliance requirements.
- Improved data reliability across personnel systems through process redesign and quality control.
- Conducted performance assessments and implemented corrective actions that enhanced training program effectiveness.
Skills
- Microsoft 365
- Power BI
- Google-Suite
- Canva
- Data Analysis
- Stakeholder Communication
Education And Certifications
- CAPM – Certified Associate in Project Management (PMI) Training
- Specialized coursework in leadership, course instruction, instructional systems, logistics management, and program analysis
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt – Process Improvement
Timeline
Program Analyst
Huntington Ingalls Industries
08.2024 - Current
Special Projects Coordinator
Department of the Air Force
10.2022 - 08.2024
Protocol Specialist
Department of the Air Force
11.2021 - 07.2023
Assistant Chief, Force Development
United States Air Force Reserve
09.2019 - 11.2021