First enlisted workshop develops airmen

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Vicky Kuntz
  • 934th Operations Support Flight
Minneapolis-St. Paul --  The 934th Airlift Wing Human Resource Development Council held its first-ever workshop for enlisted members of the 934th Airlift Wing November 9-10.

The event was co-chaired by the 934th AW Vice Commander, Col. Mark Vijums, and the 934th AW Inspector General, Col. Toby Hammer, with the theme "Developing Airmen"
More than 170 wing enlisted members attended the workshop, with representation from every enlisted rank and unit. The event provided both professional and personal development briefings such as leadership 101, interviewing skills, time management, enlisted force development, living a healthy lifestyle, stress management, conflict resolution and financial management. In all, there were 22 presenters, most of whom were members from the 934th AW -- the 934th AW commander, Col. Timothy Tarchick's, first sergeants and senior NCOs -- but also including the 22nd Air Force Command Chief, Chief Steven Larwood.

"The tremendous turnout stands as proof that this workshop is something our Airmen need and use for self-improvement in their careers, both in and outside the Reserve," said Colonel Vijums.

Approximately 74 percent of the attendees completed surveys for each of the two days with 99 percent of them rating it as "good" or "exceptional" and that they would recommend it to others. Overall, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive and many people hope the workshop becomes an annual event.

Chief Larwood commented that the event was "phenomenal," being especially impressed with the choice of workshop topics because he thought they were relevant to the needs of the Airmen of the 934th AW. His presentation on enlisted force development was rated one of the highest in workshop surveys, as were Colonel Tarchick's presentation on leadership 101 and Colonel Vijum's presentation on interviewing skills.
Workshop presentations, including Colonel Tarchick's recommended book list, can be found on the 934th AW HRDC Community of Practice site.

Anyone interested in planning the next workshop should attend the next HRDC meeting, which will be held Feb. 7 at 9 a.m. in the 934th AW headquarters' conference room.