Jennifer Norton
• Master's Degree
• Leadership Institute for Military Spouses - Emerging Leaders Program
• Joan Orr Spouse of the Year - Squadron & Group 2024
• Civilian CAT 1 of the 2nd Qtr - Wing 2024
• Group Civilian of the Year - 2021
• Key Spouse of the Year - Squadron 2019
• Key Spouse of the Year - Wing 2018
• Joan Orr Spouse of the Year - Squadron 2018
• Alpha Xi Delta
• Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society
• Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society
• Sigma Iota Rho Honor Society
• Omicron Sigma Sigma, Order of the Sword & Shield
• Society for Collegiate and Academic Leadership
• American Red Cross
What do you attribute your success to?
A Servant's Heart and an Unwavering Commitment to Growth.
To me, leadership is an extension of service. This philosophy has guided me through every season of my life, beginning when I was a stay-at-home mother. Seeking community, I joined a local Mother's of Preschoolers (MOPS) group, which quickly evolved from a source of support into an opportunity to lead. Even through the transitions of military life, I remained committed to board leadership, eventually serving as a Key Spouse or my husband’s squadron. In that role, I discovered a deep joy in advocating for military families and supporting the spouses who sacrifice so much for the mission.
As I transitioned into my federal career, I carried that same "mission-first" mindset into the professional sphere. I realized early on that success requires both a willingness to serve and the courage to seek mentorship. When I decided to pivot my career, I didn't just wait for an opening; I enrolled in a Master's Degree Program and proactively sought out a mentor within my target field.
My success is not the result of a single title, but of a consistent habit: identifying a need and stepping forward to meet it. Whether managing a volunteer board or navigating the complexities of the federal system, I have found that when you lead with a desire to help others thrive, the path to professional excellence follows naturally.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Apply for the job, even if you don't meet all of the qualifications.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Communication, trust, and honesty are my top three for both work and personal life.
In work, I look for teams that value input from everyone and leaders who are open to feedback from the team, regardless of position. Leaders or teams that allow or turn a blind eye to unprofessional conduct are teams that I will leave quickly.
Locations
American Red Cros
Honolulu, HI