In 2020, General Van Ovost became the only four-star female general in the US Department of Defense, the fifth in the history of Air Force. She has great experience in aviation, aerospace and mechanical engineering, defence and military. She graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and US Air Force Test Pilot School and she is a pilot-in-command. She has more than 4200 flying hours in over 30 planes.

During the meeting at WUT, General Van Ovost said that since childhood she had dreamed about becoming a pilot. It was difficult for a woman to follow that career path at that time. That is why she is so much engaged in education and mentoring aimed at tearing down existing stereotypes and at changing exclusion practices.

– We, ourselves, are actually the greatest limitation – emphasised Jacqueline Van Ovost.

She also pointed out that success is not only attributable to the person who achieved it.

– It is important to remember those who came before us, those who are with us and those who are behind us – said the General.

She also talked about the work of the Transport Command (USTRANSCOM), which she heads. It is a unit that coordinates missions all over the world, using both military and civilian transport resources. General Van Ovost gave examples of specific actions of the Command, also those recent ones from Ukraine. She also thanked Poland for the involvement in the missions.

The participants of the meeting had the opportunity to ask the General some questions. They were interested in, among other things, advice for young people at the start of their military and aviation careers or ways to combat stress during challenging missions.

General Van Ovost stressed that the army is primarily a mission, not just a place where you earn money.

– We take decisions that the lives of others depend on – she said. – That is why each leader must first take care of themselves, which includes exercise, good diet, sleep. Only when you have control over yourself can you lead others.

At the end of the meeting, the participants took a photo with General Jacqueline Van Ovost.

General Van Ovost talked about her career path and the role of mentoring

Participants of the meeting had an opportunity to ask questions

Guests from other universities (Military University of Technology and War Studies University) participated in the meeting

A commemorative photo of the General and the meeting participants