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Airmen participate in 'speed mentoring' event

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Benjamin Kim
  • 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Dozens of Airmen received mentorship and advice from several senior NCOs during a speed mentoring event on Hurlburt Field, Fla., June 21.

The event mimicked "speed dating," where attendees rotated from one senior NCO to another with the opportunity to ask various questions -- an attempt to garner a professional relationship to aid their military career.

"We've opened up to airmen basics, all the way up to chief master sergeants, to have an opportunity to speak one-on-one to build that professional connection in a one hour session, and each mini-session within is five minutes -- so they meet with a new mentor every five minutes," said Master Sgt. Paola West, John C. Vincent Airman Leadership School commandant. "Just a quick hit to get that information and to allow individuals to speak one-on-one and overcome their fears -- quick, short and to the point, then moving on to the next."

Seemingly sage advice from years of rich military experience flooded the phonic airspace as the recipients of invaluable information listened intently during each round.

"The best piece of advice I've received was to look out for your Airmen -- take care of [them], make sure you're getting to know them personally instead of just delegating tasks and just showing up for work, said Staff Sgt. LeQuane Davis, 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron engineer technician. "Get to know all your Airmen and become a great wingman."

While lessons within the sessions could be held like weapons for the future, the event built a foundation to which long-lasting relationships could be built.

"I think the best part of this event is hearing back from our senior NCOs and hearing they've kept in touch with their Airmen," West said.

This event could be invaluable for any Airman, regardless of rank, who are looking for a direction within their military career.

"They're leading the way," West said. "You can come out and learn some things, meet great people, because you never know who you're talking to."