GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Driven by a strong interest in a physically demanding role, Staff Sgt. Michael Reed launched head-first into his Air Force career. After 10 years, he transitioned into a recruiter position, currently serving here in San Angelo, Texas.
As a recruit, Reed took a special interest in Pararescue and initially pursued that route. He passed his physical fitness test and booked the job; however, he was reclassed into material management while attending technical training. Though it wasn’t his initial choice, the career field fascinated him.
“The Air Force has its own supply logistics chain, and there's a lot involved in that. It's a very complicated and elaborate system,” said Reed, “I think getting to understand that system and learning the ins and outs of it was what interested me- seeing how the Air Force supply chain operates. I did that for about 10 years, I thought it was cool. I enjoyed my time, got some really cool assignments out of it, and met some really good people.”
Reed explained that everything in the Air Force operates through the logistics chain in one way or another; being a part of the backbone that supervises these operations was very important to him. Famous leaders in world history have said that the line between order and disorder lies in logistics, and leaders achieve success through effective logistical planning.
“They always say that wars are won by beans, bullets, and bombs and all those things go through the supply system one way or another,” said Reed, “I always thought it was really cool to see the backbone of any kind of operation.”
Eventually, he wanted to keep moving forward in his career and believed that growth comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Volunteering for recruiting was an uncomfortable choice for him, but he saw it as an opportunity for professional development.
As an Air Force recruiter, he is the first person interested individuals meet. He facilitates their enlistment process and pushes them into their career. He serves as their first glimpse into military life. These interactions set the tone for how recruits move into the military and their mood going forward. Reed can share his experiences and knowledge to help prepare recruits for what comes next as they move on to basic military training and beyond.
Prior to enlisting in 2014, he graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in rehabilitative medicine and then worked as a personal trainer. During this time, he connected with his now-wife, who inspired him to revisit the idea of joining the military.
“I had wanted to join the military at the end of my college career. It just didn't work out for whatever reason,” said Reed, “I had a four-year degree when I joined the Air Force. After graduating from college, I became a personal trainer, and that's where I met my wife. She was preparing to join the Air Force, and she inspired me to reconnect with the military myself.”
Now, being in for 10 years, he credits his supervisor while being stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia, with pushing him to keep growing despite any setbacks he may face.
“The biggest advice I would relay is from my supervisors back at Langley, life's going to come at you and there's going to be ups and downs. Learn to enjoy when the roller coaster is up and learn to be resilient when you're down. I think ultimately that’s what life is about,” said Reed. “I've been very lucky and fortunate to have supervisors who have always encouraged me to find opportunities. I wouldn't be where I am today if I didn't have supervisors who looked out for me in that kind of regard.”
Even with support from mentors and supervisors, Reed is no stranger to the stressors the military introduces. For him, the most notable of these would be frequently moving. Relocating presents challenges for everyone, especially those in relationships. The struggle to adapt to new jobs, schools and social circles is often underestimated. Thankfully, his wife understands because she’s been through it herself.
Despite this, he believes in the Air Force’s three core values- Integrity, Service before self and Excellence in all we do. Integrity, in particular, sets itself apart from the others. While it can seem repetitive when serving in the Air Force, sticking to these values in everyday life, whether in uniform or not, pays off. Being part of an organization that stands by these principles is something he values
“The benefits of retiring from the Air Force are unmatched,” said Reed. “Things like pensions and retirement pay are an invaluable benefit that the military is still offering, why not take advantage of it?”
The Air Force emphasizes education and personal growth and always pushes its members to improve, whether through online courses, certifications, or TDYs for professional development.
Reed’s goal for his Air Force career is to continue recruiting the next generation of the world’s greatest Air Force.