17TRW Command Chief implements new shadow program Published Feb. 15, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Jessica D. Keith 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas-- -- Chief Master Sgt. Brendan Criswell, 17th Training Wing Command Chief, recently implemented a monthly shadow program, which allows NCOs a chance to see operations from his perspective and get some one-on-one mentoring. Seasoned Senior Airmen, Staff Sergeants and recently promoted Technical Sergeants have the opportunity to participate in the program, which gives promising Airmen a chance to learn how the wing operates from a command chief's position. Chief Criswell said he also sees the program as a means to mentor NCOs. "This program enables me to have in-depth conversations with junior NCOs to find out what's on their mind, the problems they face and their perspectives on Air Force topics," he said. "I also get to share my views on some of the larger issues the Air Force is facing today." While the Chief said he never participated in a formal shadow program when he was a junior NCO, he was able to spend time interacting with senior NCOs regularly. "I had the opportunity to talk out issues with my senior leaders and hear their take on current events, which helped me develop my own perspectives and opinions," he added. "My interactions with senior NCOs and even Chiefs aided my professional development as an NCO." Chief Criswell said he hopes the participants will learn more about wing operations too. "I want them to leave with a greater insight as to how the wing operates, and through our sharing of perspectives on Air Force issues, I hope they will gain a greater understanding of the way the Air Force operates on a daily basis," the Chief added. He said he also wants them to take a look at the base through his perspective. "I want them to see what it is like to be a command chief," he said. "As essentially the pentacle of an enlisted career to make Chief or become a Command Chief either at a base or major command level, I want them to get a glimpse of what might be in the future for them." Staff Sgt. Gisela Williams, 17th Medical Group, recently participated in the program and said she was surprised by the number of daily decisions that have to be made to ensure smooth operations. "Before this, when I thought of a Chief, especially a Command Chief, I thought of office meetings," she said. "I didn't think about having to make decisions such as keeping the dining facilities running." He makes decisions that affect both permanent party personnel and the students every day, she said. She said she learned a lot about an NCO's role in the Air Force and recommends NCOs to volunteer for the program. "Following our command chief around for a day, changed my views of the wing at the command level," she said. "He showed me what it means to be Airmen who are the Air Force rather than people in the Air Force." For more information on the Shadow Program, send a request through your chain-of-command.
