SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Today we spotlight Master Sgt. Amanda Robles, 932nd Mission Support Group, command support staff
932AW: In just a few words what is an NCO?
AR: A leader who is hardworking, capable, caring, and committed to the Air Force mission, as well as to their leaders, co-workers, and subordinates.
932AW: In your words, what are some responsibilities of an NCO?
AR: NCO’s are responsible for being professional on and off duty, capable and knowledgeable with their roles and duties, a role model for airmen, and able to teach, train, and learn in their working environments.
932AW: What do you think it takes to become an NCO?
AR: Dedication, hard work, professionalism, and a caring attitude for the people and the mission.
932AW: What changed from being an Airman to becoming an NCO?
AR: NCO’s have a big responsibility to teach and train the next generation of airmen – to lead from the front and guide their airmen, who depend on their NCO’s to know the ropes and rules of the AF and unit’s mission. Additionally, senior leaders expect their NCO’s to be knowledgeable, experienced, and informed on daily duties and missions. Ultimately, NCO’s are both workers and leaders, so their experience and expertise is vital to their unit’s success.
932AW: What advice would you offer Airman?
AR: I would encourage airmen to find a good mentor/role model to learn from. To ask questions and start thinking about the characteristics and leadership traits that they most admire in their leaders and mentors; make a list of those characteristics/traits and start practicing them in their work center in preparation for the day they become an NCO.
932AW: Do you have a mentor or anyone that helped you in career to becoming an NCO?
AR: While I was a Senior Airman, I had a supervisor who was warm and caring but strong and dependable – she demonstrated a perfect balance of both. I knew she was trustworthy and reliable when it came to mission needs, as well as caring and kind when giving instructions or dealing with personal matters. She was a model of dedication and hard work with a positive, caring attitude. Her demeanor and work ethics encouraged me to follow in her footsteps when I became an NCO.
Thank you Master. Sgt. Robles for sharing your knowledge and experience with us.