What are the ingredients in a "Supervisor Souffle"?

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Blodgett
  • 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task Force command chief
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  While watching one of my wife's favorite cooking shows on television, I heard the host rattle off a list of ingredients for the perfect culinary delight. My mind began thinking about a past discussion I had with students attending the NCO Academy. One student asked me the secret to being successful as a supervisor. I remember I responded with a couple of "tried and true" rules that I have always lived by. But, as I watched TV, I began to list in my mind some key "ingredients" for the perfect "supervisor souffle." This is what I came up with, and I submit to you as a great recipe for success:

-- Start with one professional NCO, eager to learn and anxious to help his/her fellow Airmen, and mix in Professional Military Education starting with the Airman Leadership School.

-- In a large melting pot, stir in many young Airmen yearning for leadership, and let simmer for an EPR reporting period.

-- Fold in a detailed initial performance feedback, with clear expectations and standards of conduct and performance. Ensure you follow-up throughout to ensure the Airmen are in the proper "consistency," correcting as necessary.

-- Measure in compassion and firmness to ensure they are in correct proportions.

-- Blend in core values, then mix thoroughly and completely. Remember, without core values the mixture will certainly not "rise" to the occasion when the heat is turned up high.

-- Add lots of recognition and praise and continually whip into the mix. Never forget to stir in copious amounts of training to the mixture as well, because training serves to bind all the ingredients together.

-- Now, bake for specified period; continue to monitor while in the oven, not forgetting to check often to ensure that it does not overcook or "burn" itself out.

Finally, remove from heat, step back and witness the "masterpiece" you created. Is it something to be proud of, worthy of emulation and desired by all around you? Or is lacking something? As the chef/supervisor, you are ultimately responsible for how your menu turns out. You see, no great "souffle" is ever derived without hard work, through preparations and a clear recipe for success. Be the supervisor you always wished you had.

By following these instructions, you can ensure you have prepared your "souffle" for the best restaurants in the world! Go forth and lead (our Airmen deserve no less) and have a great Air Force day!