The Boss

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Pick | U.S. Air Force Maj. Jay Stellwagon is the Air Boss for U.S. military aircraft at the Dubai Airshow 2019, United Arab Emirates.  

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

11.21.2019

Story by Tech. Sgt. Matthew Rosine 

United States Air Forces Central     

With hundreds of aircraft from dozens of different countries flying in and around the Dubai Airshow 2019, it takes a person of strength and conviction to manage and lead U.S. military operations.

That’s why Air Force Maj. Jay T. Stellwagon answered the call to be the Air Boss for U.S. military aircraft in the Dubai airshow.

“Being the Air Boss is really about leadership,” said Stellwagon who is from Sixmile, South Carolina. “You have to be able to lead the arrival of your peers and colleagues, to get the airplanes here, and while they are here to lead your colleagues in partner nations. Everything is about leadership here.”

And, Stellwagon AKA “Fuse” is up to the task.

“Airshows are about airplanes,” said the 13-year Air Force veteran. “Just like a maintenance team needs a maintenance boss, the Air Boss needs to be someone who knows operations. There are many different leaders here, and they have different needs. I am in that culture, so I can get them what they need to be successful.”

And, while the 35-year-old loves his job as the Air Boss, the best part of his job is the people.

“My favorite part of the Dubai Airshow is actually getting to meet all my colleagues,” said Stellwagon. “Working with them for months is great. But, for me, walking out there and shaking their hands is really the best part of my job.”

The Dubai Airshow 2019 is the largest aerial tradeshow in the world, and allows U.S. forces to demonstrate the unique capabilities it provides throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

• Date Taken: 11.21.2019
• Date Posted: 11.22.2019 00:51
• Story ID: 352931
• Location: DUBAI, AE
• Hometown: SIX MILE, SC, US