What does the Future Hold? Staff Sgt. Kristin Swanstrom
We all know people who encounter unpredictable and challenging situations, requiring them to adapt quickly. Their ability to remain composed, or look composed, in high pressure situations is enviable.
Staff Sgt. Kristin Swanstrom, a Tactical Aircraft Maintenance specialist, or crew chief, from the Minnesota National Guard’s 148th Fighter Wing, is one of those people who make hard work and change look easy.
The 2017 graduate of Proctor High School always knew she wanted to be in the military. She started the process to join the U.S. Air Force when one of her teachers, a retired 148th Fighter Wing member, encouraged her to consider the Air National Guard.
Swanstrom enlisted in June of 2017. She attended Basic Military Training at Joint Base Lackland – San Antonio, Tex., then technical training at Sheppard Air Force Base, Tex., where she learned to launch, recover, refuel, and maintenance operations on the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
As an F-16 crew chief, Swanstrom performs aircraft, engine, and component inspections; conducts pre and post flight inspections; uses technical data to diagnose and solve maintenance problems; and conducts functional testing of various aircraft systems.
Swanstrom deployed in support of a 2020 NORAD homeland defense mission and again in 2022 to Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Spartan Shield. She’s also traveled to Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., and Tyndall Air Force Base, Fl., in support of large-scale F-16 flying training deployments.
In 2021, Swanstrom was named Airman of the Year by the 148th Fighter Wing for her outstanding technical accomplishments and professional development efforts in 2020. During this period, she was lauded when she identified jet engine damage caused by foreign object debris while at a deployed location during a post-flight inspection.
“Staff Sgt. Swanstrom embodies the highest standards of excellence as an Airman, serving as a role model with professionalism, dedication, and integrity,” said 148th Accessories Element Supervisor, Senior Master Sgt. John McEwen. “She has the innate ability to recognize how she can best serve others, putting them ahead of her own needs.”
While serving her country and working full time as a crew chief, Swanstrom also attended the University of Wisconsin Superior, and simultaneously earned her private pilot certificate. “I attended classes from 8 a.m. until noon most days,” said Swanstrom. “I worked (at the base) from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m. and took my flight lessons on the weekends.”
While she demonstrated grit and excellent time management in achieving her goals, Swanstrom credits many mentors, supervisors, and connections she made from her military career. One standout mentor is Capt. Beth “BATR” Hovland, a pilot assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing. Swanstrom and Hovland both represent a small percentage of women who perform duties in traditionally male-dominated career fields. “I considered getting out after my six-year enlistment,” said Swanstrom. “BATR always encouraged me to stay and make it better for the next person.”
For a while, Swanstrom considered applying for a commission in the Air National Guard with the goal of becoming an F-16 pilot. As she continued her education, she noted “that I loved my legal classes.” Beyond her coursework, she also completed an internship with the Duluth Housing and Redevelopment Authority where she immersed herself in eviction law.
In December, Swanstrom graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Superior with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies. She’s enjoying the extra time she has now that working full time is her only responsibility. The standout high school athlete is dedicating some her extra time to self-care and fitness.
This summer, Swanstrom will leave her full time at the 148th Fighter Wing to pursue her Juris Doctorate at St. Thomas School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota. She’ll still serve as a crew chief with the 148th Fighter Wing, but it will be part time.
Navigating change with grace is a remarkable skill. Swanstrom’s ability to adapt and lead during change speaks volumes about her character. It’s often individuals like her who inspire others to face transitions with confidence and determination.
Story by Audra Flanagan
Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs
