JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
Dr. Stephen E. “Wilbur” Wright will retire on Dec. 17, 2024, closing a 47-year chapter with a 30-year active-duty career and a significant civilian strategist, professor, and mentor role. His legacy is embedded in service, education, and operational excellence within the Air Education and Training Command, profoundly influencing countless Airmen.
“Dr. Wright is a legend in the world of military strategy,” said Col. Jill E. Hopkins, PhD, Air Education Training Command, Strategy Innovation and Futures Division (A5X) chief. “As an author, educator, and practicing strategist, Dr. Wright’s impact has spanned generations of senior USAF and joint military leaders.”
Career Highlights
Dr. Wright’s career reflects his dedication to national security, intellectual leadership, and air campaign strategy. He remained committed to service, starting as a pilot in the B-52 and later the B-1B.
“When I think back on my piloting experiences, it all boils down to two words,” Wright said. “Mission and safety.”
Another pivotal moment in Wright's career was his selection to conduct Functional Check Flights for the B-1B community. He recalled how Acceptance Check Flight pilots trained him to evaluate every flight parameter, and it was during this experience that he truly learned what it meant to fly.
After flying bombers for the Air Force, he served as a professor and advisor at the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies and the Air War College Dean of Academic Affairs. Most recently, as Deputy Chief of the Strategy, Innovation, and Futures Division at AETC, Joint Base San Antonio–Randolph, he guided forward-looking strategies in Air Force education, recruitment, and readiness.
Major Achievements
Wright's academic accomplishments highlight his expertise beyond his Air Force role. Holding a Ph.D. in International Relations from Tufts University, he has established himself as a published author on various topics, from NATO alliance theory to modern warfare and cyberspace. His research and writings provide valuable insights that contribute to the development of military strategy.
“Completing my Ph.D. and serving as Dean of Academic Affairs at the Air War College was a defining moment,” Wright said. “It marked a pivotal step in my journey, allowing me to contribute to developing future leaders while advancing my academic and professional goals.”
Civilian Service
After 30 years in uniform, Wright continued to develop a legacy of mentorship, innovation, and strategic foresight to inspire future generations of Airmen.
Wright expressed that it was a great honor to become the first civilian faculty member at the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, mainly since he had once been a student there. He reflected on the rewarding experience of watching the young officers he taught rise to flag rank and go on to lead the Air Force, noting how fulfilling it has been to see their growth and success.
Wright stated, “For more than 12 years, I’ve been fortunate to mentor and shape the careers of more than 500 Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and allied nations officers.” He expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s been a privilege to have such a meaningful impact on the development of these officers throughout my career.
“Helping establish the CSAF Ph.D. and the SECAF STEM Ph.D. programs has been a career highlight,” Wright said. “Also working closely with Lt. Gen. Robinson and senior staff to develop the AETC operational approach was a fulfilling way to bring theory into practice.”
Wright explained, “Teaching in the Online Master’s Program for Air Command and Staff College was another way to give back — again, influencing more than 500 students.” He emphasized how this opportunity allowed him to continue positively impacting the next generation of military leaders.
Wright’s reflection
Wright's career is a testament to the power of knowledge, the importance of a strategic mindset, and the enduring impact one individual can have on the Air Force’s future. According to Hopkins, Wright is a legend in the world of military strategy. His impact has spanned generations of senior USAF and joint military leaders. His influence is so widespread that it’s rare to find an organization within the USAF without a senior leader he has mentored or taught.
“At his core, Dr. Wright blends air-minded warfighter principles with solid planning and strategic outlook in a way that has guided nearly all aspects of AETC’s mission,” said Hopkins. “He will be impossible to replace, but I know he is leaving the Air Force better because of his achievements.”
“Forty-seven years of service to the Air Force and our nation ... each day was a privilege,” Wright said. "If I had to sum it all up in one word, it would be ‘grateful.’ My success isn’t measured by what I’ve done but by the achievements of those I’ve taught and mentored. I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to their success.”