22nd ARW Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Leon
  • Airman 1st Class Jose L. Leon
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.

Staff Sgt. Victoria Carrero, 22nd ARW command post senior controller, was selected as spotlight performer for the week of March 18 to 22, 2013.

Carrero has been in the Air Force for five years and at McConnell AFB for almost three years.

As a senior controller, she processes emergency action messages, sends operational reports to higher headquarters, ensures command post controllers maintain command and control comprehension, and is a mission monitor.

"One of Carrero's best qualities is the exceptional attitude she presents regardless of how difficult her situation may be," said Capt. Eric Waldo, 22nd ARW command post chief. "Whether she is asked to work a no-notice 12 hour night shift or come in on a weekend to get a mission-critical task accomplished, Carrero is always positive and accepting of the challenges presented to her."

While off-duty, the Wylie, Texas native enjoys reading, writing and working out.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
The most positive influence in my life is my mother because of the faith, strength and fearlessness she has relentlessly exhibited throughout my life despite the hardships that have been thrown her way. I've always strived to have the same courage and integrity my mother has portrayed when faced with obstacles or in making tough decisions.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
My advice to a new Airman would be to learn the ins and outs of your job. The more you know and understand your role and impact in the big picture, the more pride you will have in the work you accomplish. Not only will you become more experienced in your job, but your general outlook will be more optimistic, which will positively affect your family, friends, and coworkers. You want to be the Airman other Airmen look up to, not the Airman others can't stand to work with.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
One day I would like to be a first sergeant or a command post superintendent. I really enjoy helping others and seeing them succeed. If I was in the position to really help and motivate my Airmen, I believe I would do it wholeheartedly. That is a type of inner joy that would, in turn, motivate me to continue striving for excellence.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I haven't done a whole lot of traveling, though I wish I could say I had, therefore, Miami is definitely the most interesting place I have traveled to. I loved the weather, the beaches, the night life, and most importantly the food. I also did a lot of great shopping. People there were very friendly and I will definitely go back another time.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
If I could meet anyone living in this world today, I would meet President Barack Obama. I'm not really affiliated with any political party but I read his book "The Audacity of Hope" and really liked what he had to say about politics and the behavior of society in the world we live in now. He is obviously a very intelligent individual and I would love to pick his brain on a myriad of topics.