Tanker Talkers to hold speech contest

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Lindsay Grose
  • 22nd Logistics Readiness Squadron
On March 8, the McConnell Tanker Talkers Toastmasters club will hold a speech contest to select a contestant to send to the Area International Speech Contest.
Judges will be evaluating speeches in three main categories: content, delivery and style.

Toastmasters is an international educational organization dedicated to improving communication and leadership skills. Toastmasters offers a proven way for individuals to advance their communication skills by teaching them to speak confidently to any size group, provide effective evaluations and conduct meetings.

During regular meetings individuals have the opportunity to develop speaking skills by practicing in a friendly environment. Each meeting includes prepared speeches, oral and written evaluations and impromptu speeches, called table topics. There are also opportunities for people to develop their leadership skills through participating in various roles during the meeting or as a club officer.

Although Toastmasters focuses on improving public speaking skills and getting over the fear of speaking in public, it teaches more than just public speaking. "It teaches leadership and communication skills, and it is a great way to build on and prepare for other forms of Air Force professional military education courses," said Capt. Benjamin Boehm, McConnell Tanker Talkers Toastmasters club president.

Whether people aim to become better leaders or improve on communicating with their loved ones, Toastmasters provides the tools and opportunities for people to reach their goals. Plus, it's a resource for all members of Team McConnell.

The Tanker Talkers meet every Thursday in the military equal opportunities classroom on the second floor of Bldg. 750 from 11 a.m. to noon.

For more information, call Captain Boehm at 759-1603.