JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA BOLLING, Washington, D.C. –
Nearly 40 Airmen and Guardians were welcomed into the senior noncommissioned officer corps during an senior NCO Professional Enhancement Seminar held from Aug. 8-11, 2022, at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C.
The four–day course provided newly-selected master sergeants with an in-depth view of their increased supervisory, leadership, and managerial responsibilities, to assist them in making a successful transition to SNCO ranks.
“One of the many ways we show Airmen and Guardians that we value them is by investing in their professional development; particularly in an environment of strategic competition where we will need senior NCOs to be on top of their game when leading teams in their respective formations and developing the next generation of leaders to sustain our competitive advantage,” said Chief Master Sgt. Clifford Lawton, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Senior Enlisted Leader and 11th Wing Command Chief.
During the four-day course Airmen and Guardians learned about conflict resolution, joint service culture, organizational leadership through discussions and panels with guest speakers.
“Strengthening your toolbox is extremely important,” said retired Chief Master Sgt. Todd Simmons, founder of the Courageous Leadership Alliance. “We lead people not processes, so what your superpower is as a leader is the most important thing. Things like empathy, connection, having a team that is cohesive, is what will drive people towards their optimal performance.”
As operational leaders, senior NCO’s play a unique and critical role in leading teams and shaping the future force. The strategic development of our leaders as they come to this pivotal career point allows us to maintain the competitive advantage, says Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger Towberman.
“It’s an ancient and noble calling to serve one’s country, and the way we professionalize our enlisted force is what sets us apart from every military in the world,” said Towberman.
Upon completion of the seminar, master sergeant selects were celebrated on Aug. 12, 2022, during JBAB’s first Senior NCO Induction Ceremony since the service-lead transfer in 2020.