Command Chief Master Sergeant of 22nd Air Force visits the 911th Airlift Wing

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jonathan Hehnly
  • 911 AW/PA
PITTSBURGH IAP ARS --  The command chief master sergeant of the 22nd Air Force visited the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station during the January Unit Training Asssembly.

Command Chief Master Sgt. Steven M. Larwood stressed the important role that Reservist's play in accomplishing the Air Force's overall mission and the importance of career advancement during his visit to the 911th Airlift Wing.

"I'm looking to create a system in the Air Force Reserve Command, in which advancement is set in hard work, members can't wait to get here, and individuals feel like they have an invested stake in the base's success or failure," said Chief Larwood. "If we have all three, it'll make you stay 33 years. The value of longevity is a powerful thing."

The chief master sergeant talked about his career and how he made it from airman basic all the way to command chief master sergeant of the 22nd Air Force. He encourages everyone to set challenges and realistic goals.

"When opportunity, preparation, and a little bit of luck collide you will advance," said Chief Larwood. "Chance favors the prepared."

The chief stressed the importance in working ahead for the next skill level and taking advantage of educational opportunities as they arise. If you are waiting for the death or retirement of another in order to be promoted, the door for opportunity will open before you are ready, the command chief guaranteed.

There may come a point where your rank is more important than your job or your job may be more important than your rank, Chief Larwood said. The same person can have different priorities at different points in their career.

"By having both types of people, it collectively makes us the best reserve component on the planet," said the chief master sergeant. "Whatever you do, make the most of it."

No matter what point in your career you find yourself it is important to always be looking for the next job or next stripe, the chief said. Command Chief Larwood has 28 years in and is unpromoteable, but he still sets goals for himself. He emphasized the importance of physical fitness goals, the use of ancillary training and getting your Community College of the Air Force degree.

"Keep everything in perspective," said the chief. "Everything asked of you is important in one way or another. These things aren't going away and could become necessary for promotion"