Secretary of the Air Force Sheila Widnall said Iowa State President Martin Jischke has long supported creating opportunities for women in science and engineering.

Jischke knew Widnall as an assistant professor when he was a graduate student at MIT. “Marty understands some of the problems women in engineering face,” Widnall said.

Widnall, who spoke to about 150 people Friday evening at the 10th Anniversary Banquet for ISU’s Women in Science and Engineering, said Jischke took over her class for her when she had her second child.

Jischke said Widnall is a good example of some of the strides women have made in science and engineering.

“I could hardly imagine a better role model for women in science and engineering,” Jischke said. “We’re honored to have such a remarkable woman. She’s been very special to me for a very long time.”

Widnall said she never turned down opportunities for professional advancement, but said “whatever you’re doing, make sure you’re having fun.”

She said she was always drawn to the fascination of air and space “so when Washington asked me to head the Air Force, I didn’t turn them down.”

Widnall, an internationally known expert in fluid dynamics, graduated from MIT in aeronautics and astronautics and then served as a faculty member for 28 years.

“I applaud the celebration of accomplishments of those who had a harder time getting their foot in the lab door,” Widnall said.

As secretary, Widnall is responsible for the current and future readiness of the Air Force to accomplish missions.

Widnall said she concentrates on quality of life issues, modernization and acquisition reform and scientific and technological development. She served on many boards, panels and committees in government, academia and industry before her appointment in 1993.

She is also responsible for planning, justifying and allocating the service’s annual budget of $62 million.

“The Air Force relies heavily on the latest developments in science and technology, and we have a vested interest in encouraging young people to pursue related careers,” Widnall said. “I’m very pleased to visit Iowa State and promote careers in science and engineering, particularly for young women.”

Widnall holds a Ph.D. from MIT and honorary degrees from Princeton and Suffolk Universities. She has received the National Academy of Engineering Distinguished Service Award and in 1996 was inducted into the Women in Aviation Hall of Fame.

“I’m very pleased to be part of the evolution [of women in science and engineering] as a student, as teacher and researcher and now as Secretary of the Air Force,” Widnall said.