ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, Tenn. -- Who remembers their first "real" job? 

Sometimes that first work experience is one we would prefer to put behind us, but it can also lead to positive and unexpected outcomes. 

When Lindsay Haig, a 2007 graduate of the University of Maryland, learned she had landed a job at AEDC White Oak where Hypervelocity Wind Tunnel 9 is located, she had mixed feelings.  On one hand, she was excited, but Haig also admitted to feeling a little nervous, too. 

AEDC White Oak, located in Silver Spring, Md., provides aerodynamic simulation in the critical altitude regimes associated with strategic offensive missile systems, advanced defensive interceptor systems, and hypersonic vehicle technology. Test customers include NASA, DARPA and a host of DoD contractors. 

When Haig learned Tunnel 9 was managed by the Air Force, she thought the facility was part of an Air Force base. She also envisioned a large, formal and micromanaged work environment like the one parodied in the Dilbert comic strip. Her first day on the job quickly dispelled both preconceptions. 

"When I came here I saw people wearing jeans and everyone seemed laid back," Haig said, explaining that Director Dan Marren also briefed her on the facility's history - how the wind tunnels used to be part of the larger Navy Ordnance Lab at White Oak, which was situated on a 700-acre tract of mostly rural land. The Navy connection struck a chord with her. 

Coming from a Navy family, including grandparents and uncles, and learning that her coworkers were a small, close-knit group, Haig said any apprehension she had initially felt was gone on her first day. Pleased to have her "foot in the door, doing administrative work," she soon was taking on more responsibilities. 

Marren said finding employees who fit well into the work environment there can prove challenging. 

"At White Oak, being 700 miles from the main base in Tennessee, means we have to do most things on our own - this creates a need for people who can adapt," he said. "We look for folks who are versatile, flexible and have a hospitality focus. Lindsay fit right into the Tunnel 9 environment from day one." 

Since Haig is often the first person a potential visitor contacts or sees, it is her responsibility to initiate the security screening process for anyone wanting to visit. 

"We have to make sure they are U.S. citizens or they can't get through the gate," she explained, adding that she also is the site director's secretary. 

More recently, Marren got her involved with LabQuest, an alliance of local businesses, elected officials, economic development partners and residents who have supported the Naval Ordnance Lab (NOL) in the past and are supportive of Tunnel 9 and the Federal Research Center, housed in a complex still under construction on land formerly occupied by the NOL - in the residents' "back yard." 

"Recently, I took on this new job to get the tours together, get the badges done and get everything organized," she said. "I've met countless Maryland delegates, senators and congressmen - that's been exciting, but you have to do your research before they show up." 

Marren said maintaining positive ties between AEDC and the community is an important job requiring certain social skills. 

"Working closely with the community and other stakeholders at the Federal Research Center requires a personal touch," he explained. "Being a good neighbor is critical to getting our mission accomplished. Having a consistent face, besides mine, that can represent the Air Force well and follow through is important and Lindsay took to that role splendidly. I can't be everywhere all the time, and knowing that AEDC will be well represented is a great comfort." 

Haig said she has thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and it has her considering pursuing a career in public affairs. 

"I love psychology, too - that still interests me, but I have a friend who is in mass communications," she said, admitting being torn between the two fields. 

When Haig isn't busy with arranging tours of Tunnel 9 or screening visitors
and handling other various administrative duties, she spends time as a volunteer
at the Montgomery Humane Society. She also enjoys fishing, jet skiing and sports in general.