JANET C. CALKINS
Colorado Springs,CO
Summary
Seasoned and results-driven Protocol and Event Planning Executive with over 25 years of experience leading strategic engagements for the highest levels of U.S. Government, military leadership, and international dignitaries. Renowned for orchestrating flawless, high-profile events and ceremonies across Combatant Commands, Field Commands and Major Commands, including the historic stand-up of the United States Space Force and United States Space Command. Adept at navigating complex military and diplomatic protocols, and advising senior leaders on multicultural customs and international practices. Proven leader with a track record of mentoring cross-functional teams, fostering excellence, and delivering mission-aligned experiences that reflect the prestige and vision of the command. Trusted liaison with Congressional staff, civic leaders, and global partners, consistently recognized for strategic foresight, operational precision, and unwavering professionalism.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief, Executive Actions, Commanders Action Group (TS/SCI)
Headquarters Space Operations Command
02.2022 - 06.2025
- Highly accomplished Event/Conference Planner with 25 years of experience managing high-profile events for senior U.S. Government and military leadership
- Expert in orchestrating strategic conferences and official ceremonies with precision, discretion, and diplomatic finesse
- Proven success navigating complex military and international protocols to ensure flawless execution of events
- Coordinated engagements for top-tier officials including the Vice President, Congressional members, Secretaries of Defense and the Air Force, senior military leaders, and foreign dignitaries
- Adept at managing logistics, security, communications, and stakeholder coordination across multiple agencies and international partners
- Recognized for delivering seamless experiences under pressure, with exceptional attention to detail and professionalism
Director, Protocol (TS/SCI)
Headquarters Space Operations Command
08.2021 - 01.2022
- Served as senior protocol officer and principal adviser on all command-level protocol matters
- Supported Commander's strategic objectives through expert planning and execution of high-level visits and events
- Anticipated leadership needs and provided comprehensive support for Distinguished Visitor (DV), STAFDEL, and CODEL engagements
- Initiated and managed congressional correspondence and developed detailed itineraries for official visits
- Researched space policy positions to craft strategic event content aligned with visitor profiles and command priorities
- Advised leadership on multicultural and international customs, ensuring culturally appropriate representation and hospitality
- Oversaw DV logistics including lodging, transportation, meals, entertainment, and event execution
- Managed Commander's Official Representation Funds (ORF) with fiscal responsibility and transparency
- Directed and mentored a team of 6 personnel (4 military, 2 civilian), fostering a high-performance, goal-oriented work environment
- Led planning and execution of 84 major events, including Base Renaming Ceremonies, USAF to USSF Transfer Ceremonies, and international dignitary visits.
Deputy Director Protocol (TS/SCI)
United States Space Command and Headquarters Space Operations Command
08.2018 - 07.2021
- Served in a historic dual-capacity role supporting USSF, USSPACECOM, and SpOC as senior protocol adviser
- Played a key role in standing up the U.S. Space Force, its first Field Command, and newest Combatant Command (COCOM)
- Directed and mentored a dual-hatted team of 8 personnel (6 military, 2 civilian), fostering high performance and accountability
- Designed and executed strategic event content, honors, and logistics for Distinguished Visitors (DV), CODEL, and STAFDEL engagements
- Provided expert guidance on international customs, DV lodging, transportation, meals, entertainment, and ceremonial execution
- Managed Commander's Official Representation Funds (ORF) with precision and fiscal integrity
- Assisted in establishing Legislative Liaison Offices during initial stand-up phases, bridging manpower gaps
- Collaborated with Legislative Liaison Officers to research and align event content with space policy positions of high-level visitors
- Developed tailored communication strategies and ceremonial protocols to support DV engagements during COVID-19 restrictions
- Oversaw daily office operations, virtual scheduling, leave coordination, and executive administrative processes
- Cultivated a goal-driven, supportive work environment through structured leadership and ongoing mentorship
Protocol Officer, GS-12
Air Force Space Command
02.2007 - 08.2018
- Led protocol planning for 16 Commander's Conferences, including 7 at geographically separated facilities
- Managed all aspects of event coordination: invitations, lodging, transportation, seating, and formal/informal engagements
- Developed and executed detailed itineraries and logistics for high-level distinguished guests
- Built strong relationships with higher headquarters, mission partners, civic leaders, and external agencies
- Provided expert guidance on protocol execution across multiple Air Force Space Command locations
- Served as Team Lead for annual Community Holiday Reception, hosting over 200 civic, military, and government leaders
- Personally curated invitation lists for high-visibility events involving Combatant Command and two Major Commands
Education
Master of Business Administration - Hospitality
Keller Graduate School of Management
Colorado Springs, CO01.2012
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Colorado Christian University
Colorado Springs, CO01.2004
Associate of Arts - Travel & Tourism Management
Blair College
Colorado Springs, CO01.1999
Skills
Strategic Event Planning & Execution
- Orchestrated hundreds of high-profile events and ceremonies for senior US Government, military, and international dignitaries
- Designed and implemented tailored event content aligned with policy positions and command objectives
Protocol & Diplomatic Expertise
- Deep knowledge of military, governmental, and international protocol standards
- Advised leadership on multicultural customs, honors, and ceremonial practices
Leadership & Team Management
- Directed and mentored cross-functional teams of military and civilian personnel
- Fostered high-performance environments with clear goals and continuous feedback
Operational & Administrative Excellence
- Oversaw daily office operations, virtual scheduling, and executive administrative processes
- Implemented systems and procedures to support seamless event execution and staff coordination
Certification
Brevard Community College Business Specialist Certificate, 192 hrs
SECURITY CLEARANCE
TS/SCI
OTHER INFORMATION
- Selected by name to lead the protocol division during two-day conference hosted by the United States Secretary of Defense and United Nations Secretary General.
- Selected to be the Air Force protocol lead for the Wounded Warrior Games from 2011 - 2013
Training
Patrick Air Force Base Supervisory Leadership Program, 240 hrs
Timeline
Chief, Executive Actions, Commanders Action Group (TS/SCI)
Headquarters Space Operations Command
02.2022 - 06.2025
Director, Protocol (TS/SCI)
Headquarters Space Operations Command
08.2021 - 01.2022
Deputy Director Protocol (TS/SCI)
United States Space Command and Headquarters Space Operations Command
08.2018 - 07.2021
Protocol Officer, GS-12
Air Force Space Command
02.2007 - 08.2018
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Colorado Christian University
Associate of Arts - Travel & Tourism Management
Blair College
Master of Business Administration - Hospitality
Keller Graduate School of Management
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