SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As a young Soldier, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Andrea D. Warden had no idea that she’d
one day be making history. Graduating from the U.S. Army 92G Food Service Specialist Course in 2013
would be the beginning of a new journey. Although her career would start as a cook, three years later
she’d find her true calling when the U.S. Army opened all combat arms positions to women in 2016.
Warden would take this opportunity to forge a new and unlikely path as a 13B Cannon Crewmember. A
role new to women at the time. Although she faced doubters, she proved them wrong, graduating near
the top of her class and becoming the first, and currently the only, female Howitzer section Chief in the
Illinois Army National Guard.
Today, Warden hopes to inspire other women who may be interested in pushing the envelop and
defying expectations set on them by others.
“Whenever you challenge yourself against adversity, there is nothing that is unattainable,” Warden said.
“It’s important that women are given opportunities to try different careers and be there to support and
mentor each other along the way.”
In celebration of Women’s Equality Day, the Illinois National Guard State Equal Employment
Management Office hosted a panel discussion at the Illinois Military Academy on Camp Lincoln Aug. 26.
Facilitated by Sgt. 1st Class Erica McCrary, the State Equal Opportunity Advisor, the open discussion
allowed panel members and the audience to share advantages and challenges within our organization.
![Camp Lincoln Hosts Women’s Equality Day Panel Discussion]()
