Senior Leader Profile: Col. Jon Hobart

  • Published
  • By K. Houston Waters
  • Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  For the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center’s director of contracting, leadership begins and ends with the Air Force core values.

“I know it might sound a little cliché, but integrity, service and excellence are what really bring us all together,” said Col. Jon Hobart. “This is true whether you're in the military, a civilian or a contractor supporting the department’s mission. These values are the foundation for our professionalism and common ground for building trust in one another.” 

Hobart embarked on his military career in 1996 as an enlisted Soldier in the Army. He transitioned to the Air Force in 2004, commissioning through Officer Training School. Since then, he has served in a variety of roles, both home and abroad, supporting research and development, systems procurement, installation support, and more.

Hobart said his perspective on the Air Force core values, personal resilience and mission execution evolved over the course of his career.

“When my own resilience was seriously challenged, I realized that I couldn’t perform at my best,” he said. 

Hobart said he believes Airmen are best positioned to honor their commitment to the core values, their fellow "Big A Airmen" and the mission when they are mindful of their spiritual, mental, physical and social well-being. 

When asked to share more about his leadership philosophy, Hobart highlighted the importance of learning from others and giving credit to the mentors who help shape your career. 

In his view, every great military leader is one that understands the mission and aligns their unit to support it. They seize initiative and empower teams to address constraints, giving everyone an opportunity to develop a "highlight reel" and win. They also demonstrate kindness. 

“During a commander’s conference, I asked retired Gen. James ‘Mike’ Holmes for his opinion on the most important trait of a leader," Hobart said. "His response was kindness. Every person you encounter is fighting their own battle and it’s important they know you are on their side. Every person deserves dignity and respect. Our Airmen deserve a leader who demonstrates high standards and is approachable, one who walks the walk.”

Hobart oversees contracting activities for 43 major acquisition programs responsible for developing, modernizing and sustaining two legs of the nation’s nuclear triad. A few examples include the Sentinel and Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile programs; the Air Launched Cruise Missile; the Long Range Standoff Weapon; and various nuclear command, control and communication systems.

“I feel blessed to work with such an incredible group of contracting professionals,” he said. “I'm proud of their commitment to modernizing and sustaining our nuclear arsenal. I’m also impressed with our talented and dedicated partners across the Center and beyond.”

Hobart concluded by expressing how grateful he is to be a part of AFNWC, especially at a time when the Department of War is transforming the acquisition process. 

“This is our shot to address old assumptions and champion common-sense reforms,” he said. “It’s an exciting time to be part of the amazing things the AFNWC is doing.”