22nd CONS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Katrina M. Brisbin
  • 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 First Class Phillip Gray, 22nd Contracting Squadron simplified acquisitions contracting specialist, was chosen as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of April 8 to 12, 2013.

As a contracting specialist, Gray manages, performs and administers contracting functions for commodities, services and construction using simplified acquisition procedures, negotiation and other approved methods.

The Marietta, Ga., native enjoys watching movies with friends, watching and playing sports, and exploring Kansas.

McConnell AFB is his first assignment since enlisting in June 2012.

"He is being recognized for his attention to detail and consistent ability to promote excellence," said Staff Sgt. David White, 22nd CONS contract administrator. "Gray worked diligently through a stressful end of fiscal year 2012 while simultaneously completing his career development courses and entering the 22nd ARW end of course hall of fame with a score of 95 percent."

Gray is also the Airman's Council committee head for events.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
The most positive influence in my life has been my mother. Being a single parent, she has always had to work through adversity just to make sure I had what I needed. I would not be where I am if not for the characteristics my mom displays on a regular basis.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
If I could pass on one piece of advice to a new Airman, it would be to surround themselves with positive influences, at home and at work. Something that I realized very early in my Air Force career is that you must surround yourself with people who will support you in achieving your goals. It has been incredibly helpful for me to have friends and coworkers that are always looking to help me out in my personal and professional life.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
As of right now, one of my long term goals is to earn senior airman below-the-zone. A big part of the reason I joined the military was because I wanted to prove to myself that I could thrive in situations in which the standard is not good enough.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place that I have ever been is Atlanta, Ga. It's interesting because it is such a big city with tons of stuff to do. The most important part of Atlanta, though, is that it is where both the Falcons and Braves play home games.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I had the chance to meet anyone in the world it would be Abraham Lincoln. In terms of leadership, I'm not sure that there is a better example to gather knowledge from. I would like to just be able to ask him how he felt about the decisions he made at such a critical time in our country's history.