Serving in the United States Air Force… serving my country… was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. And while I came out with decorations on my chest and hardware in my bones, it’s the leadership lessons that have made the biggest difference in my life.

I served in the United States Air Force from 1992 to 1996. While in the USAF, I trained as a Crew Chief at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX. For my permanent duty station, I was stationed at Pope Air Force Base, NC, which has been closed in the recent decade.

Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.

By Dwight D. Eisenhower

While at Pope I worked as an Isochronal Inspection Specialist for the Lockheed C-130 Hercules Airlift Aircraft with the 23rd Wing Flying Tigers. While on Active Duty, I was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, and achieved the rank of Senior Airman – Below the Zone. From the Green Ramp disaster, which President Clinton came to personally present an award to the 23rd Squadron for their combined efforts in assisting with the Disaster, to participating in what was to be the largest combat personnel drop since World War II, Operation UPHOLD DEMOCRACY, I learned a great deal about large organizations, leadership and combat readiness, that I have been able to translate into my business operations.

• Decorated Gulf War Veteran
• Worked in Multiple Disciplines
• Honorably Discharged with Disabilities

While this talk is geared towards Veterans, people from all walks of life can benefit from the leadership lessons that I apply to real-world civilian circumstances and business situations.