Shattering Glass Ceilings in the Navy
April D. Beldo’s illustrious career in the United States Navy is a testament to her unwavering determination and trailblazing spirit.
As the first African American female Command Master Chief (CMC) of an aircraft carrier, Beldo shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations of women and minorities in the naval forces.
A Pioneering Journey of Firsts
Beldo’s achievements extend far beyond her groundbreaking role as the first female CMC of an aircraft carrier. She was also the first African American female CMC of Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, the first African American female Force Master Chief for Naval Education and Training Command, and the first female and African American Fleet Master Chief for Manpower, Personnel, Training, and Education.
Mentorship and Empowering Sailors
Throughout her career, Beldo emphasized the importance of mentorship and empowering Sailors at all levels. She firmly believed in making time for personal connections, recognizing that a strong mentor had once guided her own path.
“Don’t ever get so busy…that you don’t have enough time to take out of your schedule, to stop and have a conversation with a Sailor because somebody stopped for you,” Beldo shared in her oral history.
Whether it was at the Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, or aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, USS Kitty Hawk, USS George Washington, USS Bunkley, or USS Carl Vinson, Beldo ensured she cleared her schedule to engage with Sailors, providing invaluable guidance and support.
Leadership Through Principles
As the Fleet Master Chief of Manpower, Personnel, Training, and Education, Beldo designed a challenge coin centered around the principles of respect, integrity, credibility, and humility.
This coin served as a teaching tool for newly selected Chiefs and others she addressed, emphasizing the importance of living by the core Navy values of honor, courage, and commitment.
“Junior Sailors look up to Chief Petty Officers, so they have to have integrity and credibility. They can’t say one thing and do another,” Beldo would remind her fellow leaders.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Beldo’s trailblazing career serves as an inspiration not only for Black Sailors but for all those who aspire to achieve greatness in the face of adversity.
Her dedication, mentorship, and principled leadership have left an indelible mark on the United States Navy, opening doors for future generations of women and minorities to follow in her footsteps.
