Keesler implements civilian workforce reductions

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Victoria B. Porto
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs
As a result of Air Force reductions in the civilian work force, Keesler Air Force Base is slated to lose 68 civilian positions in 2012. This reduction is in response to direction from the Secretary of Defense for the Department of Defense to keep civilian manpower costs capped at fiscal year 2010 levels. Air Force-wide, these efforts are part of an ongoing process designed to realign scarce manpower resources within the Air Force's most critical mission priorities.

"This is a challenging time across the entire workforce, but all the men and women on Team Keesler will continue to sustain excellence in our mission of training tomorrow's Air Force and providing outstanding service to our Airmen and families," said Brig. Gen. Andrew Mueller, 81st Training Wing commander.

The Air Force is continuing to pursue voluntary methods such as civilian hiring controls and voluntary early retirement and separation incentive programs with the goal of avoiding involuntary force management measures to minimize any adverse impact the reductions may have on the workforce.

"We can't be successful without our talented and experienced civilian workforce," said Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley. "We are making difficult choices about how to deliberately restructure and posture the force and will continue to look for new ways of accomplishing the mission. We can't afford business as usual."

To increase efficiencies and ensure the service's future strength, the Air Force will increase positions supporting acquisition, the nuclear enterprise, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and other areas while reducing positions in management, staff, and support areas.

Details regarding any additional efforts to streamline operations, such as reprioritizing base services and partnering with the local community, will be announced as they are finalized.

"We are committed to keeping our workforce, families and local community informed throughout this process as we support the Air Force and DoD efforts to build a more efficient and strong force for the future," Mueller said.