Photo By Airman Cailey Aandal | U.S. Air Force members involved in Future Leaders Advisory Group (FLAG) presented...... read more read more
The Future Leaders Advisory Group (FLAG) program is a professional development opportunity for newly enlisted and commissioned Airmen. FLAG has given first-term Airmen the opportunity to develop problem-solving skills through mentorship.
The Airmen in FLAG are nominated by their unit’s chain of command. Nomination requests are sent to first sergeants, senior enlisted leaders, and commanders. From there, Airmen are selected that will best represent the unit.
“When you’ve been here for a long time, you’ve adjusted to the way things are and you don’t see things the same way [as members newer to the force],” said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Erin Hansch. “By bringing them into solving these problems, we are empowering these Airmen.”
Airmen meet quarterly (throughout the 12-month term), the Friday before drill weekends, with program leaders who serve as mentors to guide them through problem-solving methods aligning with principles of Continuous Improvement and Innovation (C12) and the Commanders Inspection Program (CCIP).
Each meeting includes content from the C12 8-step problem model, including brainstorming, stakeholder analysis, and root cause analysis.
“Going through the process helped me to identify a problem and take deliberate steps toward a resolution. It was a truly impactful experience,” said Airman 1st Class Michael Rivera, 133rd Force Support Squadron.
Rivera’s presentation focused on implementing a fitness program that would be optional for base members during drill weekends to improve their readiness.
“As guardsmen, we’re always ready,” said Rivera. “Maintaining peak physical fitness, strengthens our readiness, ensuring we are confident, capable, and prepared to act. We’re not the chair force; we’re the Minnesota Air National Guard.”
At the end of the 12 months, Airmen present their topics to leaders from the base. From there, leaders decide on which projects to implement. Rivera’s topic was proposed for implementation in 2026.
“Flag is a great opportunity to grow in your professional skills and your leadership skills, and also just connecting with other people on base,” said Rivera. “I would recommend this program to any Airmen who want to make a difference in the Wing community.”
| Date Taken: | 01.12.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 08.20.2025 14:32 |
| Story ID: | 545840 |
| Location: | ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA, US |
| Web Views: | 29 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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