LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- The HERKWERX innovation lab hosted the Project Mercury Innovation Workshop at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Sept. 2–5, 2025.
Launched in 2019, Project Mercury builds an innovation-ready force by developing competencies that equip Airmen to identify problems, generate ideas and implement solutions while cultivating a culture of creativity and community.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to look at problems from a different perspective and be able to apply that lens at your workspace,” said Lt. Col. Laura Wilson, 913th Airlift Group senior intelligence officer.
The course welcomed participants from all Little Rock AFB units, encouraging cross-wing collaboration and building a forum where shared challenges drive collective solutions.
“When we run into a problem, chances are other people on this base will have similar concerns,” said Capt. Jason Linderman, HERKWERX chief innovation officer. “With this collaboration you get more attempts at a solution and more data to fill in and come up with better ideas.”
During the workshop, participants worked in teams to identify real-world challenges and brainstorm solutions using structured innovation tools such as design thinking, root cause analysis and rapid prototyping.
At the end of the event, each team developed a proposal and pitched their solution to base leadership or a designated sponsor creating opportunities for their ideas to receive resources, mentorship and potential implementation across the installation.
“This program helps teach you how to minimize risk, how to prototype in a safe environment and gives you encouragement and community,” Wilson said. “Knowing that you’re not the only person that wants to change the situation helps a lot with your own ability to continue trying new things.”
Project Mercury invests in Airmen’s problem-solving skills by helping them develop and apply new solutions that directly strengthen Air Force missions. By fostering creativity and adaptability, the program enhances mission readiness across the force.