President
Class of ’04
Shayla CantySmith is the President of the Way of Life (WOL) Alumni Group, an official affinity group of the U.S. Air Force Academy Association of Graduates (USAFA AOG). Under her leadership, WOL is committed to fostering a robust network of support among graduates and cadets, focusing on mentorship, professional development, and community service. A dynamic advocate for diversity and inclusion, Shayla brings her deep dedication to service and excellence to the organization’s mission of empowering future Air Force leaders.
In her Air Force career, Lieutenant Colonel CantySmith has excelled as a Contracting Officer, holding leadership and staff positions at the Office of the Secretary of Defense, MAJCOM, and Squadron levels. She earned her Unlimited Contracting Officer Warrant and expanded her expertise as a Program Manager, where she was responsible for the successful fielding of 158 advanced radars on the F-15C/D fleet. Shayla holds Level III certification in Contracting and Level II certification in Program Management.
Shayla is married to Randy Smith, and together they have two children, Caleb and Nia. Through her leadership of WOL, she continues to champion alumni engagement and mentorship, strengthening the Air Force community across generations.