SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Today we spotlight Master Sgt. Samuel Durbin, 932 AW/IGI, Superintendent of Trends/Analysis
932AW: In just a few words what is an NCO?
SD: A bridge to help facilitate the objectives of leadership and enrich the lives of those fellow Airmen entrusted within our care.
932AW: In your words, what are some responsibilities of an NCO?
SD: To inform our Airmen of the mission and needs of the commanders, then remove the roadblocks in their way and assist them with executing the mission all while ensuring they are balancing their personal lives. To be their mentor and sounding board for ideas and look for ways to empower them to grow in their personal and professional lives.
932AW: What do you think it takes to become an NCO?
SD: Becoming a subject matter expert and learning your job first, then learning who you are as a follower/leader. Finally finding out how to adapt that to other service members from every walk of life and making the sum outcome greater than the parts. In essence finding out how to make 1+1=3.
932AW: What changed from being an Airman to becoming an NCO?
SD: Knowing that I must lead people now all while still learning who I am as an NCO. Learning that there are bigger players in the game and a greater overarching strategy that may be invisible from where I am now.
932AW: What advice would you offer Airman?
SD: Take advantage of every opportunity you are given, this may be traveling, certifications, schooling, assignments, anything that keeps pushing you to learn and experience more than what you had yesterday. If opportunities are not given to you, find them, create them and never settle.
932AW: Anything you would like to add?
SD: I have certainly had moments that I wonder why I continue to be a service member. Not every day is easy, but each day is an opportunity to become a better me and leave my mark on the people and organizations that have given me nearly 15 years of memories.
Thank you Master. Sgt. Durbin for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.