Forging Steel Wingmen seminars begin Published Jan. 28, 2010 By Master Sgt. Mark A. Winklosky 911 AW/PA PITTSBURGH IAP ARS -- In February, the 911th Airlift Wing will begin a series of seminars aimed at development within the Profession of Arms and geared toward helping us learn more about our Air Force heritage. The first of the series will touch upon "Customs and Courtesies." Tech. Sgt. Michael Perkins, currently a recruiter at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, will be the guest speaker for this first segment. For six years, Sergeant Perkins was a military training instructorfor the Air Force Basic Training Course held at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. "Tech. Sgt. Perkins is an awesome speaker," said Senior Airman Jamie Perry, public affairs specialist. "I had the opportunity to hear him speak recently during the enlisted workshop and it was very enjoyable. He has a lot of energy and likes to get the crowd involved," said Airman Perry. According to Tech. Sgt. Perkins, it will not be a dry slideshow. He plans to get interaction and involvement from the audience. There will also be some videos. "The seminars are not going to be mandatory, but highly encouraged," said Master Sgt. Denise Gerst, chief of personnel employment. "There will even be some door prizes given away at the event to help in persuading members to attend," she said. "I'm confident that once the word gets out about this program, we'll have to find another venue for better seating arrangements," said Sergeant Gerst. Until notified of any changes, the seminars will take place in the operations briefing room located in basement of Building 419, on Saturday of the unit training assembly, at 2 p.m. Each presentation is scheduled for approximately 45 60 minutes. The tentative schedule for the seminars is as follows: February - Customs and Courtesies March - Leadership from the ground up April - Dress and appearance May - Ethical and Core Values June - Enlisted Force Structure July - Air Force Seal and Code of Arms August - Mentoring Responsibilities/Mentor and Mentee September - Promotion/Commissioning Programs October - Drill and Ceremony November - Profession of Arms December - Politics and Civic Involvement If you have any questions, or would like to become involved with any of the planning, please contact Master Sgt. Denise Gerst at (412)474-8528.