LANSING, Mich. – Since joining the Michigan Army National Guard, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Thais Taylor has strongly advocated equal opportunity.
As the State Equal Employment Manager (SEEM) from 2015-2020, Taylor promoted the civil and human rights of Michigan National Guard Soldiers, Airmen, civilians and community members, earning recognition from the NAACP.
“Chief Taylor improved equal and fair treatment of civilians and service members through multiple cultural programs,” said Army Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “She recognized and supported our diverse members across race, color, gender, religion, age, disability, national origin and their contributions to our American democracy, its history and culture.”
For her efforts Taylor received the NAACP Roy Wilkins Renown Service Award, which salutes those who promote equality, civil and human rights, equal opportunity, human relations and or public service in the military.
“Chief Taylor worked closely with the Michigan adjutant general and the human resources office in helping eliminate barriers in the workplace,” said Lt. Col. Frank Laurence, the MIARNG equal opportunity manager.
“Her work to develop protocol in support of women’s breastfeeding and lactation areas at all MING work sites resulted in enhancing policies to advance the progress of a mother’s privacy and childcare, which benefits the Michigan National Guard by returning the service member to duty more quickly,” he said.
Michigan National Guard leaders entrusted Taylor to improve senior noncommissioned and commissioned officers’ leadership and mentorship.
Laurence said Taylor quickly implemented the Leadership Challenge Program I & II at Fort Custer Training Center in Battle Creek.
By ensuring equal treatment and employment opportunities throughout the Michigan National Guard, she enhanced unit cohesiveness, readiness, and mission success.
“It was an honor to ensure there was fair treatment for all, no matter their rank or position,” said Taylor. “Earning this award only solidifies the investment we have of Michigan National Guard members as we continue to eliminate unlawful discrimination.”
Taylor continues improving opportunities for all service members as the warrant officer strength manager. She identifies accomplished young men and women to recruit as warrant officers, the technical experts in their career field who advise senior leaders and commanders.
“This work makes the Michigan National Guard more competent, inclusive, and representative of the communities it serves,” she said.