Telephone operator support ends Aug 31

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Stagner
  • 17th Communication Squadron
GOODFELLOW AIR FOCE BASE, Texas -- --  A key component of Air Education and Training Command's Culture of Cost Consciousness, or C3, is the application of technology to achieve cost savings - also known as Information Technology Efficiencies.

In promoting C3 operations, AETC is changing the way it conducts consolidated telephone operations. The end result will be the discontinuation of telephone operator support for AETC beginning Aug. 31 at noon. This will bring an end to an era of telephone operator support for all AETC bases.

"Rest assured, service to our customers is still a priority for AETC - we just think there are smarter and more efficient ways to provide these services," said Rebecca Meares-Jones, AETC Computer Systems Squadron's Services Flight Chief.

Callers looking for organizations or people on base were previously helped by base operators. Instead individuals seeking frequently called numbers will use the Goodfellow Web Site to access the "Quick Reference List" under the "Frequently Called Numbers" group. Also when callers dial the operator assistance number they will be forwarded to an automated call tree programmed with the most frequently called numbers and emergency directories.

Luis Spanoz, consolidated telephone operator supervisor, said he worked at the facility for 22 years.

"It was an outstanding experience and a privilege to work here," said Spanoz.

"We helped deployed members, wounded warriors and family members connect with each other," said Spanoz. "The job provided fulfillment because I knew it wasn't just a job, it was making a difference to people who were far from home and their loved ones."

Support for deployed members and their families is still a priority at Goodfellow. Every deployed member will be issued an Automated Health and Morale Server Personal Identification Number from their Unit Deployment Manager and instructions on how to use the system before departing Goodfellow. The AHAMS system brings 24 hour call capability for our deployed members to place calls home.

"This is one small beginning step," said Lt. Col. Michael Moyles, AETC Computer Systems Squadron Commander, "as we find ways to continue providing service to our customers both efficiently and economically. There will be many more in the days ahead."