Great way to retire: Retired McConnell chief wins scholarship

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Lockoski
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  It is a bitter sweet end to a McConnell member's military retirement as he journeys into civilian life.

For retired Chief Master Sgt. Joe Thompson, former Civil Engineer Squadron chief, the award of a $6,000 Air Force Club member scholarship will help him finish one of his many long term career goals.

Chief Thompson's opportunity literarily stared him in the face while working out at the base fitness center. For several weeks, he walked past a banner that the services squadron displayed. Glancing at the banner, he recalls seeing the word scholarship catch his eye. Thinking it was an opportunity to help his daughter Ashley, who is graduating from high school in May, he took a closer look.

Chief Thompson learned that by being a club member he was eligible to compete for one of the six scholarships (totaling $25,000) that the Air Force Services Agency provides each year. This year's scholarship essay, "Why is airpower critical today?", is a topic that was picked to coincide with the Air Force's 60th Anniversary.

The timing of the scholarship and the topic could not have suited him more. He is officially retiring in November with no additional educational benefits. After serving 29 years, he witnessed the advantages of air superiority during Operations Desert Storm, Southern Watch and Iraqi Freedom. Chief Thompson then took the time and effort to submit his essay. Of the 166 Air Force-wide participants this year, Chief Thompson's entry took first-place.

After receiving a bachelor's degree in Management with Park University in 1992, he was content with his academic achievement. During that time, the Air Force gave the opportunity to convert benefit Veterans' Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) to the now Montgomery G.I. Bill. As a Tech. Sergeant, Chief Thompson readily declined the offer thinking he would complete his master's degree later in his active duty career.

"It was a decision I had seconds thoughts on later in my career," said Chief Thompson.

Between several lengthy deployments and retiring a year earlier than planned, he fell short of his educational goals of completing his master's degree.

Another lesson he discovers as he transition into life after military retirement is that many civilian employers are requiring various certifications such as teaching certificates and project management certifications.

"The extra funds from the Montgomery G.I. bill have been an ideal program to target those additional qualifications and needed classes after retirement," said Chief Thompson.

At the end of his 29 year career, Chief Thompson is currently finishing his master's degree of Arts in Human Resource Management at Webster University and will be working on completing an on-line project manager certification course.

"Not only is this scholarship going to help me finish my master's degree but is going to allow me to complete my certification that will help me market my skills and leadership in the civilian sector," he said.

Chief Thompson offers his advice to those Airmen looking for career enhancing knowledge:

"Don't wait too late in your career to decide what skills, qualifications and knowledge you need to acquire a civilian position after the Air Force," he said.

"There are many educational opportunities available not only for you but your family members as well," he said. "It was through the assistance of the Air Force Aid Society that has helped me put my oldest daughter, Chelsey, through college. They offer the General Henry H. Arnold Education Grant Program that provides $2000 in grants to selected sons and daughters of active duty members. "

Chief Thompson feels that there a military opportunities that "knock at the door all the time."

"There are means out there," he said. "Do a little homework - with a little investment of time and effort, the results can be rewarding. It is important to set short and long term goals, always continue your education and take advantage of opportunities that come your way," he said. "Don't sell yourself short...set high goals and put forth the effort to see them through."

"I have the Air Force Services Agency and the Club Sponsorship Program to thank for providing this great opportunity," he said. "It definitely pays to be a Club member"

He struggled with the difficult decision to retire a year earlier than planned, but it now allows him to meet his goals and give him the opportunity to spend more time with his family.

He plans to see his daughter walk across the stage at her graduation in May.
Not only will that be a cherished moment for him, but his family will have the opportunity to watch Chief Thompson walk across the stage to accept his diploma at his graduation ceremony in June.