Lt. Gen. Bruce Litchfield, Air Force Sustainment Center commander, left center, and Maj. Gen. John Thompson, Air Force Program executive officer for Tankers, right center, talk with company grade officers, Capt. Alex Jurgermeyer, Capt. Benjamin Quigley, Capt. Christopher Lemque and 1st Lt. Keith Hudson at a “speed mentoring” session in downtown Oklahoma City. (Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Lauren Guiterrez)
Air Force senior leaders met with several Tinker company grade officers last week in a “speed mentoring” session in downtown Oklahoma City.
This “Boss’ Night Out” social and mentorship session allowed the CGOs to discuss topics like self-improvement, with general officers and colonels from various careerfields within the Air Force.
Lt. Gen. Bruce Litchfield, Air Force Sustainment Center, commander, was the key speaker as he offered his advice to the next generation of Air Force leaders. Also on hand were Maj. Gen. John Thompson, Air Force Program Executive Officer for Tankers visiting from Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, and Brig. Gen. Donald Kirkland, Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, commander. The 41 CGOs, which encompasses the ranks of second lieutenant, first lieutenant and captain, took part in a “speed mentorship” session as they rotated between eight tables in a round robin manner, giving the groups plenty of opportunity to interact.
“I learned that the leaders in these positions didn’t get to where they were at because they sought those positions,” said 1st Lt. Casey Neuville. “Their success was enabled by the leadership qualities they gained over time. The bottom line is being good at every job you do and it will take you places, even if you are not seeking rank.”
General Litchfield was extremely pleased with the event. “I’ve never seen something like this before,” but it matches with his leadership model of mentoring and taking care of our people. The senior leaders were asked a variety of questions concerning career progression, their perceptions of where the Air Force is headed in the future and budget cuts.
(Written by 2nd Lt Jeffrey Desroches, Company Grade Officer Council)