In honor of Veteran’s Day, this week’s #RealLifeWonderWoman is a woman who has served our country. Becca Friesen is a veteran of the United States Air Force, having served in the 25th Flight Squadron (Assam Draggins), Osan AB, South Korea, and the 74th Fighter Squadron (Flying Tigers), Pope AFB, North Carolina. She currently lives in the greater Atlanta area and works as the Flight Operations Supplemental Ops & Charters Manager at Delta Air Lines.
In addition to her military and career credentials, Becca is truly a kind and caring human and a fantastic role model to the next generation of Wonder Women. She lives out her values and works hard to help others reach their potential. I’m blessed to call her “friend.” Please read on and get to know Becca Friesen, a real life Wonder Woman.
KR: Thank you for your service to our country, Becca. What was your role in the military? How long did you serve?
BF: I was in the USAF for 6 years and served as an A-10 Armament Systems Specialist. Basically, I loaded bombs and maintained the weapons systems on the A-10 aircraft.
KR: What did you enjoy most about serving your country?
BF: I was very proud to serve next to the men and woman that I did. We all had a sense of pride about our country and would do anything for it and each other.
KR: You now work in a specialized position in the aviation industry. Aside from your military experience, what is your educational background?
BF: Master of Aeronautical Science; Specializations in Aviation/Aerospace Safety Systems and Space Operations Management
Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics; Minors in Management and Safety Science
Associates of Science in Aircraft Armament Systems Technology
Private Pilot License
Aircraft Dispatcher License
KR: Can you tell us about what brings you joy and fulfillment?
BF: Kids! In recent years, I have been involved in an organization called Women in Aviation, International. Through this organization, I am able to help plan and execute outreach events for children to learn about aviation and the opportunities that it can provide. Additionally, I work with middle school kids at my church and love pouring into them. I also have 16 nieces and nephews that I love spending time with and spoiling as much as I can!
KR: Where have you traveled recently and what have you learned about other cultures?
BF: I love to travel! My most recent trip was to Italy and Greece where I cruised through the Mediterranean and got to stop at several different islands. Prior to that, I went to Germany to pick up a brand new A321 from the Airbus factory and accompany it back to the states. Other cultures are fascinating and unique! The traditions and history that I learn visiting other countries has always been captivating. I’ve always thought those Minnesota century farms are old and full of history… although they are in their own way, compared to that Acropolis built in 570BC, that century farm seems like a baby.
KR: We all have inner superpowers. What are some of yours?
BF: Courage. Even though it might be scary, I push myself to take the next step and trust that everything will work out.
Adaptability. No matter where that path might take me, I’ve learned to adapt and make the best of every situation.
Reliable. I can always be counted on.
KR: Can you tell us about an influential woman in your life and how she inspired you?
BF: For as long as I can remember, Grandma Cleo has encouraged me, listened to me, and been my biggest supporter. She told me one time that I got the aviation bug from her because she took a biplane ride when she was a teenager and loved it! She is a Godly woman who loves her family unconditionally, gives back to her community, and always has cookies ready for you to eat or help bake. The wisdom she shared with me over chocolate chip cookies taught me to be true to myself, to embrace all kinds of people, and to explore the world – close to home or on another continent.
KR: If you could have one super-human power, what would it be?
BF: Flying. I mean, airplanes are cool, but if I could fly myself, why not!
KR: Knowing what you know at this stage of your life, what words of wisdom would you give to your 20-year-old self?
BF: Don’t be afraid of failure if it means you are still growing and learning.
Click HERE to learn about another #RealLifeWonderWoman currently serving our country in Kuwait.
2 Comments on “#RealLifeWonderWoman–Meet Becca Friesen”
Received this comment via email and wanted to share:
Such a wonderful tribute to an amazingly sweet, intelligent, young woman. I had the honor and privilege of meeting her for the first time at the CANDLER FIELD MUSEUM 2018 BENEFIT GALA. I immediately sensed she was a very “ special person.” Not only was she very welcoming to my husband and I (newcomers from Alaska, to the state); but she shared information on the Women In Aviation program and organization she is dedicated to; and so heavily involved in. Though my Granddaughter is only 6 years old,she kindly extended an invitation for us to attend the upcoming Aviation event for children in Williamson. She absolutely loved It!!!!!! Becca is a wonderful example to children of all ages; as well as to women all over the world- demonstrating how to not only be a sincere,productive, successful person /woman,but also how to serve others and be a caring,kind, humanitarian; all while living life to the fullest. THANK YOU BECCA,for reaching out to others and for serving in our Military. Continued success in all future endeavors! Hoping to see you again in the near future.
Gwendolyn Brock
This is wonderful and on-point in sharing about my precious & dear friend Becca. Hard to believe how much she has experienced in such little time to include constantly climbing up that job ladder. Her work ethic, commitment to anyone who knows her and her beautiful soul makes her definitely a Real Life Wonder Woman! Love it ❤️