Wes Parrell

Wes Parrell is a seasoned public affairs professional with extensive experience in military and government communications. Currently serving as Deputy Director of the Office of Public Affairs for Indian Affairs at the U.S. Department of the Interior, Wes also holds the position of Director of Public Affairs for the 161st Air Refueling Wing of the Air National Guard since December 2016. Notable achievements include being named the 161st ARW Albert Leo Burns Officer of the Year in 2021. Past roles encompass a Communications and Branding Specialist at Boeing, Director of Communications/Public Information Officer for the State of Arizona, and various positions within the Arizona Army National Guard, including Community Relations and Social Media Manager and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician. Wes's educational background includes a Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma, public affairs certifications from the Defense Information School, and a Bachelor's degree in Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management from Northern Arizona University.