Prep School Assumption of Command
Col Melissa Youderian is the new commander of USAFA Preparatory School. A prior enlisted member of the Army Reserve, Col Youderian received her commission in the Air Force after graduating from USAFA in 1998. This is not her first time returning to USAFA however, as, in addition to commanding several operational Security Forces squadrons, Col Youderian served as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) for USAFA Cadet Squadron 5, the Wolfpack. Most recently, Col Youderian served as the Executive Assistant to the Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) right here in Colorado Springs. NORAD deters, detects, and defeats air threats to the United States and Canada and provides aerospace and maritime warning and conducts security cooperation activities with allies and partners, and supports civil authorities.
COLONEL MELISSA YOUDERIAN
Colonel Youderian began her military career as an enlisted member of the Army Reserve. She later received her commission from the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, in May 1998. She spent time overseas in Italy, the Republic of Korea, and Iraq. Colonel Youderian is originally from Lincoln, Montana. She enjoys spending time with her husband and son hiking, cross-country skiing, and playing basketball.
Welcome Col Melissa Youderian and family to the USAF Preparatory School!
To view photos, go to Classes > Prep School > Prep Life or click the link below.