Mckinzee Fisher

Share your military spouse story:
When we arrived to our first base two years ago, I had no idea how much this experience would shape my life. Like many new military spouses, I faced the challenges of relocation, lack of jobs, and overwhelming uncertainty. What I didn’t expect was the profound personal growth I would find through these challenges. Unemployment became one of my greatest struggles. Like many military spouses, I faced the difficulty of job hunting in an ever-changing environment, with employers unfamiliar with the demands of military life. But rather than letting it defeat me, I became resourceful. I sought out lesser-known programs and resources that help military spouses bridge the employment gap. Through perseverance, I discovered remote work options that allowed me to adapt to our transient lifestyle. I made it my mission to share these opportunities with others, empowering fellow spouses to rise above the challenges of unemployment. As time passed, I realized that my impact could extend beyond my own journey. I wanted to ensure younger spouses felt welcomed and supported within the military community. I worked to build connections through technology, making sure newcomers had access to the support and information they needed. I helped create online platforms that facilitated communication, networking, and shared resources. Technology became a powerful way to break down barriers and foster a sense of belonging. In 2024 alone, I logged over 1,000 volunteer hours. I took on leadership roles, organizing major events like the “Pet the Jet” photo op, where families could take pictures with an F-35, creating lasting memories. I also moderated a military spouse panel during Military Spouse Appreciation Day, helping spouses share their stories and challenges. Through all these experiences, I’ve learned that military life isn’t just about adapting; it’s about creating opportunities for others to thrive. It’s about lifting each other up and building something bigger than ourselves.

Share an example of your leadership experience within the military community:
One example of my leadership within the military community was organizing the “Pet the Jet” photo op for spouses and families. Understanding the importance of creating community connections, I coordinated with base leadership, volunteers, and the F-35 squadron to make this event happen. The goal was to give families a unique opportunity to take professional photos with an F-35 fighter jet, making lasting memories while fostering camaraderie. I handled logistics, ensured accessibility for all families by working with security, and worked to make the event inclusive. The success of this event not only strengthened our community but also demonstrated my ability to lead and organize impactful events. It was incredibly rewarding to see families coming together and sharing such a meaningful experience.

Describe your involvement in the military community:
My involvement in the military community has been both personal and impactful. Over the past two years, I’ve dedicated myself to supporting fellow military spouses, particularly those who often feel unheard. I created my own blog to share resources, advice, and personal experiences, offering a platform where spouses can feel seen and understood. I’ve also developed online spaces that connect spouses, fostering a sense of belonging and community. Through my own struggles with unemployment, I’ve found innovative ways to adapt and have shared those resources with others facing similar challenges. In 2024, I volunteered over 1,000 hours, organizing events like the “Pet the Jet” photo op, where families could make lasting memories with an F-35, and moderating panels to support and uplift military spouses. My efforts, whether through blogging, organizing events, or providing guidance, demonstrate my deep commitment to making military life more connected and supportive for all.

Describe how you support your community:
I actively support and uplift my fellow military spouses by creating spaces of inclusivity and connection. Through my blog and online platforms, I share resources, personal experiences, and advice, ensuring that younger spouses, especially those who may feel unheard or isolated, have a place to feel supported. I’ve organized events like the “Pet the Jet” photo op, where families could connect and create memories, and moderated panels to empower spouses. With over 1,000 volunteer hours in 2024, I’ve dedicated myself to making a tangible impact in our community. I also focus on addressing the unique challenges of military spouses, such as unemployment, by providing helpful resources and guidance. My advocacy fosters a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration, making the military community stronger and more resilient.

What do you advocate for? Why?
I advocate for younger military spouses who often feel unheard or unwanted, especially those without children, who may struggle to find a sense of belonging. I’ve experienced this feeling firsthand—many times I felt overlooked or irrelevant because I didn’t have a family of my own yet. I know what it’s like to want to connect with others but not know where to start. That’s why I’m passionate about creating spaces for these spouses to meet, share experiences, and feel included. I use my blog and online platforms to offer resources, advice, and a sense of community for those who may feel isolated. By advocating for them, I aim to ensure they feel valued, supported, and part of the military family, regardless of their current stage in life.

How have you spread the message of your platform/advocacy?
I’ve spread the message of my advocacy by using my blog and social media to connect with younger military spouses, offering a space where they can find resources, advice, and a sense of community. I’m passionate about reaching out to those who might feel overlooked, especially spouses without children, before they lose interest or struggle with isolation throughout their spouse’s career. I’ve seen how important it is to include them early, to help them feel like they belong. If we don’t, they may carry that feeling of being disconnected for years to come. I also engage in local events and use my platform to raise awareness about the challenges these spouses face, encouraging them to connect and support each other. Through both online and in-person efforts, I make sure their voices are heard, and they know they’re not alone.

What do you hope to accomplish with the AFI Military Spouse of the Year^® title?
With the AFI Military Spouse of the Year® title, I hope to bring greater attention to the often-overlooked struggles of younger military spouses, particularly those without children, who often feel disconnected or excluded. I want to use this platform to advocate for their inclusion, ensuring they feel valued and supported within the military community. Through raising awareness, I aim to foster more resources and opportunities that help spouses find their place early on, so they don’t feel isolated throughout their spouse’s career. This title would allow me to amplify the message that every spouse deserves to feel a sense of belonging and purpose. By sharing my experiences and connecting with others, I hope to inspire more spouses to engage, build strong networks, and find empowerment within their military journey. My goal is to create lasting change and ensure no spouse feels left behind.