Arnold Air Society – Silver Wings Regional Conclave
November 21, 2025 | By Bill Yucuis
On 15 Nov 25, Col (Ret) Emily Farkas, Treasurer of the Waterman–Twinning Chapter of the Air & Space Forces Association and liaison to the University of South Florida’s Arnold Air Society (AAS), served as a guest speaker at the AAS Region IV Conclave hosted by University of South Florida’s Gen James V. Hartinger Squadron. The event—initially at risk of cancellation—was successfully revitalized by AAS C/Col Nathan Grafton, who assumed the Regional Commander role late in the year and ultimately drew more than 100 cadets, far exceeding the expected 40 attendees. He along with the Silver Wings Region IV & V President, Ms. Caitli Shelton, and their staff developed a full day dedicated to the professional development of their members.
left to right
AAS C/Col Nathan Grafton, Emily Farkas, SW Ms Caitlin Shelton
Col Farkas shared leadership insights from her 25-year career as an Air Force aircraft maintenance officer and reflected on how her post-retirement involvement with AFA has allowed her to remain connected to the next generation of Airmen and Guardians. As a former AAS Regional Commander herself at Michigan State University in 1997, she emphasized the value of service, mentorship, and professional development within AAS and Silver Wings, and encouraged cadets to stay engaged with their local AFA chapters to make a tangible difference in their communities.
The conclave also featured Brig Gen (Ret) Jimmy “Vegas” Canlas, Executive Director of Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings, who offered additional leadership perspectives and highlighted his role and the mission of the Executive Management Center. Additionally, he and two other rated officers, Major Michael Keeling and Captain Serafino Bohrer-Padavos, took part in a rated panel to share their experiences as pilots.
Brig Gen (Ret) Jimmy “Vegas” Canlas (Left), Capt Serafino Bohrer-Padavos (on screen), Maj Michael Keeling (right)
During lunch, Col Farkas met individually with cadets—especially those interested in the aircraft maintenance career field—and reconnected with Silver Wings member Jason Santacruz. Santacruz, now an Embry–Riddle student, previously served as an Airman in her Maintenance Group at McConnell AFB and has since been selected for the Airman Scholarship and Commissioning Program (ASCP), a moment of great pride for Col Farkas.
Emily Farkas and SW member Mr. Jason Santacruz
The Waterman–Twinning Chapter was honored to support the event, which highlighted the enthusiasm, professionalism, and potential of AAS & SW’s future leaders.