Chevrons

In this episode we speak to Airman 1st Class Julia Ahaesy about the importance of resiliency. Ahaesy, a recent graduate of Basic Military Training and technical school, learned a plethora of good information in her role as an additional duty Resiliency Training Assistant while attending the Defense Information School. We also learn a little bit about Chevrons' newest co-host in the process.

In this episode we speak to a married military couple who share much more than the passion to serve. Master Sgt. Brad Townsend, group First Sergeant, and Master Sgt. Deborah Townsend, wing Human Resource Advisor, share their military story. From their early days of service, through their combined 28-year break in service, to the reasons for their return to the military and the success they have found since - we learn how much this power couple's drive and determination play in not only the future of their family, but also the impact they have in their organizations.

We speak to Tech Sgt. Aaron Hero and Staff Sgt. Michael Leavitt, two recent participants from the Massachusetts National Guard’s Best Warrior Competition – a three-day event where Soldiers and Airmen are pitted against one another to see who is the most competent and effective in basic military tasks. A physically and mentally taxing event that pushes service members to their limits and challenges them to be the best they can be. Also joining the conversation is Tech. Sgt. David Manzo, a prior years’ competitor who helped prepare these Airmen for “battle”.

In this special episode of Chevrons, we welcome a panel of prior enlisted commissioned officers to discuss enlisted commissioning; the process, the rewards and challenges of swapping stripes for collar brass. The company grade officers on the panel share their experiences with the process, and provide advice for enlisted personnel considering crossing over to the officer corps. Our guests include Air National Guard Captain Vincent Tripodi and 1st Lt. Allen Nancarrow, as well as United States Space Force 1st Lt. Colleen O'Hara.

We welcome the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Massachusetts National Guard, Command Sergeant Major James Campbell, into the studio to talk about the development, readiness and mentorship of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Massachusetts National Guard. Along the way, we learn a little about CSM Campbell’s military story as well as how he ended up as the 9th state SEL.

CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview... read more

We welcome the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Massachusetts National Guard, Command Sergeant Major James Campbell, into the studio to talk about the development, readiness and mentorship of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Massachusetts National Guard. Along the way, we learn a little about CSM Campbell’s military story as well as how he ended up as the 9th state SEL. CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

We welcome recently retired Master Sgt. Stephanie Harkins into the studio for a discussion about utilizing the military skill set in the civilian sector. How the enlisted experience prepares Airmen for successful careers, small business ownership and other challenges. What should someone focus on to bring the education, training and experience gained from the military and pivot those skills into life after the uniform (or for reservists, civilian life while serving)?

CHEVRONS – a... read more

We welcome recently retired Master Sgt. Stephanie Harkins into the studio for a discussion about utilizing the military skill set in the civilian sector. How the enlisted experience prepares Airmen for successful careers, small business ownership and other challenges. What should someone focus on to bring the education, training and experience gained from the military and pivot those skills into life after the uniform (or for reservists, civilian life while serving)? CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

Chief Master Sgt. Clinton Miller, National Guard Bureau J5/J53 SPP Senior Enlisted Leader, joins us in a discussion about the State Partnership Program. The National Guards of all 54 states and territories participate in the State Partnership Program, some partnering with more than one country. Chief Miller tells us all about the program - its history, benefits and how the enlisted force can contribute to the success of the program.

CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From... read more

Chief Master Sgt. Clinton Miller, National Guard Bureau J5/J53 SPP Senior Enlisted Leader, joins us in a discussion about the State Partnership Program. The National Guards of all 54 states and territories participate in the State Partnership Program, some partnering with more than one country. Chief Miller tells us all about the program - its history, benefits and how the enlisted force can contribute to the success of the program. CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

On this episode of Chevrons we present a roundtable discussion that occurred on our other podcast, The Seagull. The conversation revolved around how we connect with one another, how we support each other and what we do to strengthen the culture here at our wing. It was a good conversation and we felt it important to share with you, our Chevrons audience - so stay tuned and have a listen - we’ll be back again next month with more great guests!

Master Sgt. Keith Robbins, the plans and programs non-commissioned officer in charge at the 102nd Communications Flight, and Tech. Sgt. Jason Whittaker, the 102nd Intelligence Wing public affairs NCOIC, talk about stoicism and some takeaways for alternative points of views and good practices for personal and professional development.

Listen to this episode and more by searching for ‘Chevrons’ on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or Spotify.

Chief Master Sgt. Charles “Chuck” Powers, National Guard Bureau Legislative Liaison serving at The Pentagon, joins us in a discussion about balancing work and personal time, taking advantage of opportunities and the importance of mentorship. Chief Powers also talks about how he ended up in such a unique position, working in our nation’s capital and how his role as Legislative Liaison impacts both the NGB and Air National Guard overall.

CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force.... read more

Chief Master Sgt. Charles “Chuck” Powers, National Guard Bureau Legislative Liaison serving at The Pentagon, joins us in a discussion about balancing work and personal time, taking advantage of opportunities and the importance of mentorship. Chief Powers also talks about how he ended up in such a unique position, working in our nation’s capital and how his role as Legislative Liaison impacts both the NGB and Air National Guard overall. CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

On this month's episode of Chevrons, we mix the format up and have some of our outstanding junior enlisted Airmen take over the show. Senior Airman Joseph Chaves, Senior Airman Clifton Clark, Staff Sgt. Chandler Parker and Staff Sgt. Hannah Rajaniemi discuss their reasons for joining the Air National Guard and what would motivate them to stay in and re-enlist moving forward. It's a great episode you won't want to miss!

Listen to this episode and more by searching for 'Chevrons' on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify.

Chief Master Sgt. Denny Richardson, the Command Chief of the New York Air National Guard, and Tech. Sgt. Frederick Freeman, a recruiter at the 109th Airlift Wing, Scotia, New York, talked about adapting and embracing culture shift in the force.

Chief Richardson hosts the Journeys Through Leadership podcast which is currently in its second season of bringing in-depth conversations with Airmen from all walks of life. Give it a listen on your podcast platform of choice!

Listen to this episode and more by searching for ‘Chevrons’ on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or Spotify.

Chief Master Sgt. Alex Gross, the Total Force Awareness Manager with the Air Force Directorate of Staff Integration at The Pentagon, and Staff Sgt. Julianne ‘MELD’ Sharon, an intelligence analyst at the 104th Fighter Wing, Barnes ANGB, Massachusetts, share their first-hand experiences becoming and developing multi-capable Airmen, and advise on how integrating the Air Force components can help us better accomplish the mission.

Listen to this episode and more by searching for ‘Chevrons’ on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or Spotify.

We turn the microphone around and interview Chief Master Sgt. Sean Sullivan, Massachusetts State Command Chief and co-host of the CHEVRONS podcast. We talk about his vision for the enlisted force in the state and cover a few of the great initiatives being developed to enhance the careers of the enlisted force.

CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and... read more

We turn the microphone around and interview Chief Master Sgt. Sean Sullivan, Massachusetts State Command Chief and co-host of the CHEVRONS podcast. We talk about his vision for the enlisted force in the state and cover a few of the great initiatives being developed to enhance the careers of the enlisted force. CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

Senior Master Sgt. Martina Crouse, NGB Senior Leadership Management Office and Master Sgt. Christopher Smith, ANG Senior Enlisted Leadership Management Office join us as we discuss enlisted development opportunities and how one can best prepare themselves to not only apply for these opportunities, but to best succeed in the profession of arms.

CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to... read more

Senior Master Sgt. Martina Crouse, NGB Senior Leadership Management Office and Master Sgt. Christopher Smith, ANG Senior Enlisted Leadership Management Office join us as we discuss enlisted development opportunities and how one can best prepare themselves to not only apply for these opportunities, but to best succeed in the profession of arms. CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force. From junior enlisted, to senior leaders and those in between, we interview notable individuals to address everyday challenges and hurdles the enlisted force faces. New episodes arrive on the last Friday of each month! CHEVRONS on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mKTdhSAHuN9MBbp4GAbxW CHEVRONS on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chevrons/id1570686113 CHEVRONS on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZHZpZHNodWIubmV0L3Jzcy9wb2RjYXN0LzQ4NA   show less

Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Myers, the Air National Guard’s Command First Sergeant and first sergeant functional area manager, and Staff Sgt. Michelle Princi, an all source intelligence analyst with the 102nd Operations Support Squadron, shared their experiences with mentorship and how it has ultimately shaped their careers.

We’d like to thank all of you for listening to the CHEVRONS podcast. As we approach the new year we plan to have more great guests representing the entire spectrum of enlisted force including perspectives from not only our fellow Airmen from the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserves and the Regular Air Force, but our brethren in the Space Force as well as fellow National Guardsmen from the Army.

We will also strive to add even more diverse points of view by including service members... read more

We’d like to thank all of you for listening to the CHEVRONS podcast. As we approach the new year we plan to have more great guests representing the entire spectrum of enlisted force including perspectives from not only our fellow Airmen from the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserves and the Regular Air Force, but our brethren in the Space Force as well as fellow National Guardsmen from the Army. We will also strive to add even more diverse points of view by including service members from all branches of the Armed Forces, including the U.S. Coast Guard. The enlisted experience isn’t just an Air thing – it is shared by all who wear CHEVRONS on their uniform. We will be taking a short break through the holidays to retool and recharge but will return on January 28, 2022 with another great episode of CHEVRONS – a podcast for the enlisted force, by the enlisted force! Stay tuned!   show less

Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Hirl, Command Chief of the 102nd Intelligence Wing at Otis Air National Guard Base, Massachusetts, and U.S. Space Force Sgt. D’Andre Floyd, a non-commissioned officer in charge of the standardization and evaluation shop at the 6th Space Warning Squadron on Cape Cod Space Force Station, discussed enlisted professional development, the qualities and attributes they look for in their peers and leaders, and culture as they each move forward in their new positions.

Featured on this episode are Chief Master Sgt. Shawn Withers, Chief of the Training and Education Center University at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, and Senior Airman James Newsome, a flight line crew chief at the 104th Fighter Wing, Westfield, Massachusetts. These Airmen shared their perspectives on why they continue to serve and what qualities and attributes they look for in their fellow Airmen and leaders.

Chief Master Sgt. Lorene Kitzmiller, Enlisted Strategic Planner for the Office of the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief, National Guard Bureau, and Senior Airman Chloe Cournoyer, a services specialist in the 102nd Intelligence Wing Force Support Squadron, reflected on leadership throughout their careers and some of the ways that successful leaders can empower our Airmen.

Chief Master Sgt. Rachel Landegent, State Command Chief Master Sgt. for the Arizona Air National Guard,​ Papago Park Military Reservation, Phoenix, Arizona., and Airman 1st Class Nolan Kaldenberg, Paralegal in the Staff Judge Advocate's Office at Otis Air National Guard Base, shared their perspectives on potential benefits, personal and professional, of reaching outside of your comfort zone and taking advantage of development opportunities.

Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Caulfield, Command Chief of the 105th Airlift Wing, Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, and Staff Sgt. Kyle Currier, Digital Network Intelligence Analyst of the 203rd Intelligence Squadron at Otis Air National Guard Base, discussed an array of subjects on mentorship and how the actions of Airmen today will shape tomorrow’s Air Force.

Chief Master Sgt. James Traficante, Command Chief of the 103rd Airlift Wing, Bradley Air National Guard Base in East Granby, Connecticut, and Airman 1st Class Joseph Chaves of the 102nd Communications Flight, shared valuable insight across the spectrum of the enlisted force on the subject of resilience, including how it has impacted their lives and careers, as well as some tips and encouragement!

Chief Maurice Williams, Command Chief of the Air National Guard, shared his thoughts and unique perspectives on enlisted development, domestic operations, leadership and the future role of the air national guard.