22nd FSS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Thornbury
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Staff Sgt. Joseph Hubbard, 22nd Force Support Squadron professional military education instructor, received the spotlight performer for the week of Feb. 29 - March 4.

Hubbard cultivates enlisted professional military education for the largest tanker wing in Air Mobility Command, conducts in service test analysis and implements new lesson plans on new curriculum.

"He is our lead trainer, has already conducted 12 hours of our annual training and is teaching his second class of the year with 254 instructor hours just in the first quarter," said Master Sgt. Rachael Hall, 22nd FSS Airman Leadership School commandant. "He is always thinking outside the box, adding creativity and ingenuity when coming up with new ideas to keep students inspired."

Hubbard, a Fort Worth, Texas native, joined the Air Force in April 2007 and arrived at McConnell in September 2011. His hobbies include Krav Maga, learning to read music and play piano and is interested in old cars.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My father is the most influential person in my life. He served as a Marine for 21 years so he has always been a great example for me. When I call him to ask for advice, it is always what I need to hear.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why? 
It's a good idea to start school as soon as possible. Also write down a plan for what you want to do with your life. Plan things like preferred age to get married, what financial situation you want to be in before you have kids, and of course what your goals in life are with realistic timelines to achieve them. This is important because if you don't have a plan, you don't know where you will land. Be ready to take on new aspects of life, by planning for them first. Most importantly, above all else be spiritually connected and ready to accomplish your planned goals and the Air Force mission.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
I garnered two Community College of the Air Force Degrees and am very close to earning a Bachelor's Degree. My highest achievement has been the many Airman who leave Airmen Leadership School with CCAF Degrees and empowered to continue their education.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way? 
I really enjoyed Pacific Beach in San Diego. I love being by the ocean and eating sea food with friends in that area.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why? 
Gen. Colin Powell is someone I would like to meet. I have read about him in my college leadership course and his life story has really stood out to me. He was injured twice in Vietnam and served as the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff and the secretary of state. He is also an Honorary Knight Commander, which was presented to him by Queen Elizabeth II.