HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- In an effort to bolster the capabilities of Team Holloman leaders, the 49th Wing hosted its first-ever Senior Enlisted Leader Course October 26th through 28th, 2022.
The course offered a targeted curriculum to prepare enlisted leaders for the demands and responsibilities of being in a trusted key leader position.
“We have expected people to step into the role of senior enlisted leader in the past without any situational awareness of what that role includes,” said U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Benjamin Vanderpuy, 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron SEL. “The intent of the course is for new or aspiring SELs to have an opportunity to see briefs and panels all focused on becoming an SEL and what it takes to be in that position.”
Through a series of specific lessons, from building a strong command team, to hearing from mental health and family advocacy representatives, and more, participants learn about the many important resources on base that will help the Airmen in their units to become well-rounded, both in their careers and personal lives.
“One of the most impactful parts of this course so far has been being able to put faces to names,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Brock Atchley, 54th Operations Support Squadron SEL. “Even though I had heard about a lot of these resources and organizations before, now I know how to access them for my Airmen.”
In addition to the many resources participants in this course learn about, they are also able to connect with other senior enlisted leaders outside of their career field, giving them an essential support network.
“The new and aspiring SELs from across the group now have an opportunity to start that dialogue where they can reach out to each other,” said Vanderpuy. “Combined with the panels and briefs, now our leaders are spread across the wing and are able to rely on each other when taking care of their Airmen.”
The Senior Enlisted Leader Course followed a flight leadership course earlier in the month, which taught new flight commanders and chiefs skills that they can use as they take on designated leadership positions in their respective career fields.
Members of the 49th Wing will continue to take an active role in ensuring the Fightin’ 49ers are resilient and capable Airmen by providing more comprehensive training on the expectations from the leadership here.