KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- (This interview is Part 4 of an open-ended series featuring members of Team Keesler selected for the Command Chief for a Day program.)
Chief Master Sgt. Vegas Clark, 81st Training Wing command chief, created a program called Command Chief for a Day at Keesler which highlights outstanding enlisted performers from around the 81st TRW.
Each Airman selected as the “Command Chief for a Day” spends the day shadowing Clark to learn what it takes to be a command chief.
This month’s Command Chief for a Day participant is Tech. Sgt. Brian Teachout from the 81st Logistics Readiness Squadron.
How do you contribute to the 81st TRW mission?
At Keesler, our team’s mission is to train 81st TRW units and mission partners how to deploy cargo assets. We do this by instructing cargo preparation, pallet build-up, hazardous material handler and hazardous material technical specialist courses.
These training courses set the foundation for the 81st TRW to deploy assets worldwide to meet the needs of the Air Force at a moment’s notice.
What is one thing you hope to accomplish while at Keesler?
Lately I have been trying to bridge a communication gap between our NCOs and junior enlisted. Once a month I invite our junior enlisted to discuss anything that is going on in the unit. Once I break the ice with them, a flood of information starts pouring out. If I can fix the issue immediately, I do, but I also take their feedback and discuss it during the weekly NCO meeting. We all discuss how to handle the questions, problems, mentorship and ensure it is handled correctly. By doing this, I hope to foster open communication up and down the chain of command.
What has been your biggest lesson learned in the Air Force?
The biggest lesson I have learned is that it is ok to fail. Michael Jordan missed 26 shots that could have won his team the game and four of them came during the NBA finals. He is still considered the greatest basketball player of all time. I’ve made mistakes, sometimes in front of a lot of people but I’m still here and ready to do whatever I can, wherever I’m needed.
Who inspires you?
I’m a third generation military member and the first in my family to be in the Air Force. My father who was in the Army was really happy when I joined the Air Force. It drives me every day to make him proud of me and what I do in the Air Force.
What is your number one goal?
My number one goal is to be a good person, work hard and be honest to those around me. I do my job with pride and live by those values each day so I can be a great Airman.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I never would have dreamed to have the opportunity to help our young Airmen and NCO’s discuss issues with squadron leadership. I see something or someone brings it up to me and I do not have a fear of failure. I’m having fun though, so I hope in 10 years I still am!