Swamp Fox Chapter Honors Legacy of Retiring Aerospace Engineering Instructor

On April 30, 2026, AFA’s Swamp Fox Chapter #298 in South Carolina joined community leaders and educational staff in honoring Debra Barber, an aerospace engineering instructor at the Sumter Career and Technology Center (SCTC), as she concluded an exceptional educational career, with heartfelt tribute.

After seven impactful years at the SCTC and a remarkable 25 years in the teaching profession, Barber leaves behind a legacy defined by innovation, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to students’ success. Her tenure at SCTC was defined by her ability to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals, equipping students with the technical knowledge and the confidence required to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Throughout her educational career, Barber was widely recognized for fostering a dynamic, hands-on learning environment that brought aerospace concepts to life. Under her guidance, students engaged in real-world engineering challenges—gaining valuable skills that prepared them for higher education and future careers in aviation and space-related fields.

Members of the AFA Swamp Fox Chapter, a long-standing partner and advocate for aerospace education in the state, praised Barber for her dedication and lasting influence. Her work aligned closely with the chapter’s mission to educate, advocate, and support the development of America’s Air Force and Space Force community.

“Mrs. Barber’s remarkable contributions extend far beyond the classroom,” said Chief Master Sgt. Cheryl R. Moye, USAF (Ret.), AFA Swamp Fox Chapter vice president. “She has helped shape the future of countless students while strengthening the foundation of aerospace education in our community.”

During her final presentation, Barber highlighted the program’s accomplishments for the 2025–2026 academic year, including a Celebrate Freedom Foundation STEM visit, a Boeing Dreamliner field trip to Charleston, the establishment of SCTC’s FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) team, and the construction of the team’s robot “Zeus.”

Under her guidance, students competed in two regional FRC competitions, qualified for the South Carolina state FRC championship, and completed drone pilot certification training.

Col. David “Bush” Hanson, USAF (Ret.), Swamp Fox Chapter president, and Moye serve as advisory committee members for the Aerospace Engineering Program at SCTC. They engage with students, fellow military veterans, pilots, engineers, and community leaders during final evaluations and presentations—providing mentorship, professional insights, and operational perspective. The Swamp Fox Chapter also demonstrates its commitment to student development. In 2022, the chapter helped fund a trip for 41 students in the SCTC’s Aerospace Engineering Program to NASA.

Colleagues and students alike describe Barber as a passionate educator whose leadership and compassion made a lasting difference. They further describe her ability to connect with students and foster a culture of curiosity and excellence as leaving an enduring mark on the program.

As she steps into retirement, the chapter and the Sumter community celebrate not only her years of dedicated service but also the generations of students she empowered. Her legacy will continue to soar through the achievements of those she taught and inspired.

The AFA Swamp Fox Chapter extends its deepest gratitude and best wishes to Barber for a well-deserved retirement and a lifetime of continued success.