Megan M. Chaplin

Megan M. Chaplin serves as Operations Flight Commander and Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies at Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Detachment 485, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, where she trains and mentors prospective Air Force officers through structured military education programs.

Her academic credentials include:

• 2018: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Neuroscience from Hiram College, Hiram, OH
• 2020: Master of Science in Forensic Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH
• 2023: Squadron Officer School at Air University, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL (Distinguished Graduate)

Her professional expertise integrates military science with psychological principles, focusing on leadership development and operational readiness training. The psychology foundation from her degrees directly informs cadet mentorship approaches and officer evaluation frameworks within the ROTC structure, emphasizing cognitive resilience and decision-making under pressure.

Captain Chaplin's military service has been recognized with the Air and Space Meritorious Service Medal, Air and Space Commendation Medal (with oak leaf cluster), Air and Space Achievement Medal, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award (with oak leaf cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal, Air and Space Overseas Service Ribbon, and Air and Space Longevity Service Award.

As primary trainer for detachment cadets, she oversees flight operations curriculum implementation and officer qualification standards. Her prior role as Deputy Director of the Commander's Action Group at Aviano Air Base's 31st Fighter Wing involved high-level staff coordination, complementing her current educational leadership within Air Education and Training Command's structure.