![Caroline Cooper](https://cdn.asp.events/CLIENT_Defence__8EE24275_D70D_4386_936BB8991B847FF8/sites/Navy-Leaders-2022/media/libraries/speakers/Caroline-Cooper-Img.jpg/fit-in/500x500/filters:no_upscale())
Caroline Cooper
Caroline joined the Royal Air Force in 1991 as a Medic. She has extensive experience operating within single-Service and tri-
Service arenas at home and overseas. With balanced experience at all ranks between the frontline and headquarters, one of her most memorable events was coordinating the military medical response to support the civilian emergency services during the 2005 London bombings. She has also amassed considerable operational experience conducting aeromedical evacuations in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Zagreb, Ascension Island, and Afghanistan.
She was the first Warrant Officer appointed as the RAF Medic advisor, responsible for the largest medical profession in the RAF. She worked relentlessly to source and deliver an accredited pathway and funding to offer all the Medics the opportunity to gain civilian qualifications from NVQ to Masters. As Station Warrant Officer at RAF Benson in 2017, she aligned the busy, operational MOB closer to universities and today's Aviators, creating and leading a Freshers’ Fair for new Stn personnel that built connections, developed a cohesive identity, and promoted inclusivity.
As a founding member of the Astra Core Team in 2020, she led in re-establishing the innovative culture, delivering strategic effect to drive grassroots innovation within the RAF, and empowering and mentoring the ideators and intrapreneurs driving innovation across Defence. She also created and leads Pj MINDSET, delivering outward mindset facilitation to increase self-awareness and collaboration, and improve organisational effectiveness across Defence. Recently selected as Command Warrant Officer UK Space Command, she is excited about the opportunity to help shape the Cmd’s vision and make space safe, secure, and sustainable.
Having already completed an MSc in leadership, Caroline is currently a Global Doctoral Candidate at Durham – Em-ylon Business School studying Organisational Behaviour, Transformation, Innovation and Leadership. Married to Kev, who also serves in the RAF, they have two sons who are both studying Bio-Chem and Veterinary Medicine, respectively at university, and a daughter who is currently flourishing in secondary education. She is a keen skier and enjoys running and literature.
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22-May-2024Surface Fleet Technology TheatrePanel: UK Defence Innovation Champion Network