Directory Profile

Clay Mason joined the Institute of Government in 2023 as a faculty member in the Strategic Operations and Planning Assistance unit.  He serves as a liaison between the University and the many military bases across the state and region as well as the surrounding communities that support them.  He provides advice and expertise to faculty and staff who are planning or executing projects with the military or associated organizations.  He advocates programming in support of military personnel and families, military operations and local communities.  Prior to joining the Institute of Government, Clay served as an Aircraft, Munitions and Missile Maintenance Officer in the US Air Force.  He held positions of leadership across the spectrum from the smallest unit to the strategic, enterprise level in the Air Force as well as the Joint Force.  He retired as a Colonel in 2023 after 32 years of service.