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My Job is People!

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Dennis Wingett
  • 52nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron first sergeant
SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany --  For the Air Force to meet the needs of the future we must develop the very best air, space and expeditionary leaders. One of the ways we do this is by providing professional development outside a primary career field in special duties such as first sergeant duty. This is one of many special duties that will hone your skills and better prepare you to serve the Air Force and your organization. 

Why First Sergeant Duty? Without a doubt it's the best job I have ever had. The reason is simple, it's a great chance to help other Airmen, and I mean ALL Airmen, officers, enlisted and our civilian co-workers.

"A fulfilled day is one when you have assisted an Airman through a crisis or a very difficult time in their lives; helped an Airman learn something new; provided that holiday meal for those far from family or just sit with an Airman and listen to their concerns and help guide them to make the best decision possible," said Senior Master Sgt. Tammy Robel, 702nd Munitions Support Squadron first sergeant.

Yes, there are the negative times as well, standing with a member in the vice wing commander's office for a driving under the influence incident, or working your way through an Article 15, being present when the Airman you know has all the potential in the world loses their only stripe for something that should have been avoided. 

"I believe there is no more effective training to prepare a young senior NCO to be a senior enlisted leader in our Air Force than first sergeant duty," said Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Kenney, 52nd FW command chief. "It will expose you first-hand to the problems and issues facing our enlisted corps and their families at a whole new level. It will allow you to step outside your functional stove pipe and see how the rest of our Air Force works and lives."

A veteran of the first sergeant corps himself, Chief Kenney went on to say, "It offers you the chance to make the a difference in the lives of our Airmen during difficult times. There is no more rewarding event in the world than helping a young couple or family at 3 a.m. in the morning when no one else is around. Indeed it is your opportunity to earn a college degree in 'people'."

First sergeant duty can be a demanding job and there are many late nights and early mornings. Having the chance to mold and shape young Airmen is the reward of a lifetime. 

Master Sgt. Deshan Woods is Spangdahlem Air Base's newest U.S. Air Force first sergeant academy graduate. 

"I love this job," Sergeant Woods said. "I like being challenged. I get many opportunities to help mentor Airmen, not only in the squadron, but all around the base. Helping them grow, not only as a person, but as a professional, just makes you feel good. I love boosting morale and seeing people smile." 

Spangdahlem Air Base's most veteran first sergeant, Senior Master Sgt. Greg Nygaard, 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron feels there is no better opportunity, as a master or senior master sergeant, to affect widespread change within the Air Force than as a first sergeant.

"You advise senior leaders on so many issues, and you have every opportunity in the world to step up and truly make a difference," he said. "Your only limitation is the time and energy you choose to throw into those endeavors. Initially, I wasn't sure this job would be for me. I just never realized the impact you can have on our people, their families, and our missions. I can't imagine a more gratifying and satisfying job."

When I made the decision to apply for first sergeant duty, I had been working as an undershirt for a very large maintenance squadron and enjoyed helping people. I was really enjoying what I was doing and mentioned to my wife I was thinking about applying. We talked about the long hours and weekends and decided as a family that it was what we wanted to do. I have been a first sergeant for more than seven years and believe it is truly the best job the Air Force has to offer a SNCO and would do it again in a minute. Making a difference in someone's life is something you will never forget. Are you ready for the toughest job you will love? 

Contact your first sergeant and ask about applying for the rewarding job as a first sergeant.
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