Kudos to AFTC's own, Ms. Shandra Bates! #ItsACivilianThing #WeAreHiring #BeALeader #CivilService #GetHired #AFCSJobs #ForcesJoined #STEM #Engineers #Scientists #Internships #EntryLevel #FederalJobs #GovernmentJobs #AFTCJobs #CaliforniaJobs #TennesseeJobs #FloridaJobs #NewMexicoJobs
⭐Civilian Spotlight⭐ SHANDRA BATES Division Chief, Engineering Resources Management, Air Force Test Center Years with Air Force Civilian Service: 11 Q: What inspired you to join Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS)? A: My brother had joined AFCS before me, so I had insight into the pride he felt by contributing to the mission. Also, my grandfather served in the Air Force, and I have another brother who served in the Navy. I developed a great relationship with my AFCS recruiter that kept tabs on me over the course of a few years, which really helped solidify how AFCS would be great fit. Also, I'm passionate about and LOVE airplanes/aircraft! Q: How does your role as an Engineering Division Chief contribute to the Air Force’s mission? A: I’m responsible for functional management in support of projects, programs, and initiatives pertaining to science, engineering, and technical management across the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) Enterprise. I ensure the AFTC’s Science & Engineering (S&E) workforce has access to developmental opportunities, like training, necessary to do their jobs. I advocate for the S&E career field across the Center and at headquarters Air Force Materiel Command. I also ensure we’re hiring and developing the right people. Q: Tell me about a time you knew you were making a difference at AFCS. A: When I was working as an F-15 Landing Gear System Engineer, we had an issue with the brake system overheating, especially if the aircraft was highly loaded (heavy) or in a high-temperature environment. I had the chance to work on redesigning the wheel and brake system. I worked the redesign project through source selection, manufacturer's development testing, and flight testing. A key aspect of the whole redesign was to make the system more sustainable – we were able to simplify designs aspects, making it easier (and safer) for our maintainers to repair. It was great to be part of a big win for the Air Force! Q: Why do you stay with AFCS? A: I stay because I have the capability to grow and move around. I get to maintain my seniority and professional network, while staying loyal to the mission and contributing my expertise to the bigger picture. When you move to a new employer, you have to start over (or prove yourself) until you build a good rapport. At AFCS, there’s no need to start over from ground zero! Q: Any helpful advice for newbies to the AFCS family? A: Make yourself indispensable – you should be striving towards mastery of some sort (ex. constant personal development, improving processes, technical expertise, etc.). You have a good opportunity to make a positive change at AFCS. Even if you’re not tasked with something because your capabilities are unknown, as an individual, you should pursue work that allows you to shine! LinkedIn Profile: https://lnkd.in/eFkWNHwz #ItsACivilianThing #WeAreAFCS #ForcesJoined #CivilianSpotlight