Jessica Stiffarm joined the Minnesota National Guard in 2003 and has served for a total of 16 years. She is currently the First Sergeant for the 147th Human Resources Company of Arden Hills. She is also a member of the Native American Special Emphasis Council for the Minnesota National Guard.

She has deployed overseas to Camp Buehring, Kuwait (2007-2008), Bagram, Afghanistan (2012-2013) and Camp Afghan, Kuwait (2017-2018).

In addition to her deployments, she has completed Winter Survival Training & Water Survival training in Norway, and Noncommissioned Officer International Camp in Croatia. She has spoken at the Minnesota National Guard Women’s Leadership Forum, Minneapolis Native American Institute, and participated in the “I Am Not Invisible,” campaign.

Jessica was recently awarded the SAIGE Meritorious Service Award which honors military members, Department of Defense civilian employees and military Veterans in government service, who have supported the DoD or their agency’s mission. Recipients are also selected based on having attributes that best epitomize the qualities and core values of their respective military service or DoD Component and promote a positive image of Native Americans in uniform.

In addition to her military service, she has worked as a Saint Paul Police Officer for approximately seven years. Jessica knows the hard work, dedication and determination it takes as a female Veteran to pursue your goals and achieve your goals. Jessica is one of many people working to help keep our nation’s citizens safe while also making sure female Veterans voices are heard.