A Trailblazing Appointment
Captain Aubrey Ridgeway has been appointed Director of Men’s Basketball Operations for the Air Force for the 2026‑27 season, a move that blends her logistics expertise with a deep‑rooted passion for the game.
Ridgeway’s Air Force career began with a commission in May 2021 after graduating from the United States Air Force Academy, where she also earned four letters in track and field and set school records in the 200‑meter dash.
Following her commission, she served as a flight commander at Hurlburt Field in Florida before taking on roles as Special Weapons Flight Commander and, most recently, Director of Operations for the 39th Maintenance Squadron at Incirlik Air Base in Turkey, overseeing a $1.3 billion maintenance and storage capability for U.S. and allied aircraft.
Her experience managing large‑scale operational resources translates into a strategic vision for the Falcons’ basketball program, where she will coordinate recruiting, player development and staff logistics.
Head coach Joe Crispin announced the appointment, highlighting Ridgeway’s "unique blend of operational acumen and athletic pedigree" as a catalyst for elevating the team’s competitiveness.
The addition of Ridgeway marks a notable milestone for women in Air Force leadership, underscoring the service’s commitment to integrating diverse talent across all domains.
Based at the Air Force Academy in Colorado, the new role situates Ridgeway within a network that includes the 39th Maintenance Squadron, the 39th Weapons System Security Group and the 39th Air Base Wing, all of which support the broader mission of air superiority.