AETC Command Chief visits Goodfellow

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Smith
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Team Goodfellow hosts Chief Master Sgt. Gerardo Tapia, Command Chief for Air Education and Training Command , April 11-12. He met with service members to get a first-hand look at the firefighting and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission.

"I'm very impressed of what I have managed to see in the last day and half," Tapia said. "The level of professionalism of the instructors and airmen I have come across has been incredible."

Tapia spent the majority of his visit going from squadron to squadron to speak to Team Goodfellow members and learning about what they contribute to the mission of the base; from the 17th Training Wing commander to new Airmen arriving from basic training. 17th Training Group students, Airman 1st Class Rebecca Sotka, Airman 1st Class Stacey Lane and fellow students were given the opportunity to have breakfast with Tapia.

"I feel as an airman it can be very intimidating to be around a senior NCO and this experience helped to let me know they are human too," said Lane. "Chief Tapia seemed to be very genuine and concerned about our safety and issues."

"I thought the breakfast was really interesting and informative and I am sure he can do a lot of good for AETC," added Sotka.

During his visit Tapia constantly reminded the Team Goodfellow members that he would be completely honest with them regarding issues that were brought up to him.
"What's most important is the fact that we can still deliver combat capabilities around the world," said Tapia on sequestration. "Can we achieve this in a smarter and more efficient way? The answer is amongst all of us."

Tapia's last stop for the visit was to tour the Air Force student dorms. Guided by Staff Sgt. Jacob Thompson, 316th Training Squadron Military Training Leader, Tapia saw first-hand where the students spend their time when they are not in class.

"I know he comes from a personnelist career field so it's cool to see him in the training environment and hear his goals for the future," said Thompson. "I enjoy his straightforward approach and feel it is very well needed."

To conclude, Tapia thanked Team Goodfellow for its hospitality and said he looked forward to coming back.

"I feel that you all are in good hands and have great leadership," Tapia added. "It gives me a reason to be positive as I get ready to depart Goodfellow."