22nd AMXS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Leon
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  As a spotlight performer, individuals are chosen by leadership for demonstrating one or more of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander' s intents: Foster a culture of excellence ... Develop the next generation of leaders ... Set and achieve goals.

Airman 1st Class Dean Haggard, 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance journeyman, was chosen as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of May 20 to 24.

Haggard has been in the Air Force for less than two years and at McConnell AFB for one year.

"Haggard continues to fulfill the 'whole person' concept of a well rounded maintainer," said Capt. Cesar Hernandez, 22nd AMXS section commander.

He has actively sought cross-utilization training with electronic and environmental and aerospace propulsion, as well attended a communications and navigation transition course. With his newly acquired skills and knowledge, Haggard has trained seven fellow crew chiefs.

All the while, Haggard completed his bachelor's degree in economics with a minor in business and is currently studying for the graduate record exam to pursue a master's degree in health administration.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My father is the most positive influence because he's set the example of how to work extremely hard at work and at home, as well as how to serve others.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
The most important things you can have as a new Airman are well defined goals. Align those goals with the needs of the Air Force and the Air Force has the resources to help you meet and exceed those goals.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
My main goal is to gain a commission in the Air Force. I'm currently studying for aptitude and entrance exams to apply for officer training school.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I traveled to St. Lucia on vacation in 2011. This was pretty interesting because of the fun-loving culture that exists on the island. The economy dictates that most people cater to the tourists, but they're not afraid to help out their own.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
The person I'd like to meet most of all would be John C. Maxwell. One of my biggest passions is leadership and Mr. Maxwell literally "wrote the book(s)" on leadership and management. I would love to pick his brain about different styles of leadership and how they pertain to different professional industries.