Supervisors must rise to the challenge Published June 6, 2007 By Chief Master Sgt. Michael Williams 60th Air Mobility Wing commander TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Have you seen a technical sergeant, journeyman, or staff sergeant first-time supervisor? Where are the front-line supervisors, the staff and technical sergeants? Our Air Force desperately needs our front-line supervisors to exhibit innovative face-to-face leadership daily, enforcing standards, mentoring and caring for our Airmen. However, the only people I can locate are the first sergeants. We're asking too much of our first sergeants! We expect them to be the supervisor, mentor and leader of our Airmen ... they're not. Throughout history, our first sergeants have enforced standards, maintained good order and discipline, and given great care to our enlisted. Yet, they are not the front-line supervisor. During these tumultuous times of balancing the force and transformation, our front-line supervisors must rise to the challenges of being a leader. That means making sacrifices. We demand a great deal from our staff and technical sergeants. First, we rely very heavily upon them to accomplish the mission, getting it right each and every time. It's imperative they get it right because, in our world, mistakes may result in Airmen in the area of responsibility not receiving supplies or equipment required to complete their mission and ultimately placing lives at risk. Second, in the midst of accomplishing the mission, we expect them to continue both their professional and personal growth. Finally, we place the overwhelming responsibility of developing the next generation of leaders ... that's tough! However, they must find that delicate balance of taking care of the mission, themselves and our most precious resource: our Airmen. Some of you are probably saying to yourself, "They can't accomplish all that in an eight or a 12-hour day." But they have to figure out a means of getting it done and that will require making sacrifices. In my opinion, if you care about something or someone, caring will inspire you to make sacrifices on their behalf. You must care enough to get to know your people; visit the dorms and provide effective feedback. Insist they adhere to customs and courtesies, be the example and hold them accountable. Don't forget to take corrective actions for their shortcomings and reward them when warranted. As NCOs you must convey to our Airmen that we need their enthusiasm, energy and technological expertise focused on the mission every day. Instill in them that being a good follower is a prerequisite to being a good leader. Be proud of what they do and the contributions they're making to keep our nation free. NCOs, you are our front-line supervisors. We depend on you to shape our Airmen and to give them the tools and training they need. Get back to the basics of face-to-face leadership. Don't depend on your first sergeant to supervise and lead your Airmen ... that's your responsibility. I will tell you being a supervisor, leading and developing our Airmen is one of the most difficult tasks you will encounter in your Air Force career. However, it is the most rewarding. Take care of your people and they will take care of you. Remember you don't stop being a supervisor when you depart work. Have a great weekend, as always be safe, make responsible choices and I will see you around campus.