22nd MDSS Airman earns spotlight performer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo
  • 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 ARW commander's intents: Foster a culture of excellence ... Develop the next generation of leaders ... Set and achieve goals.

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Tobias, 22nd Medical Support Squadron medical laboratory apprentice, was selected as the spotlight performer for the week of Sept. 24 to 28, 2012.

As a medical laboratory apprentice, Tobias is responsible for collecting, processing and reporting patient specimens and samples.

Tobias has been in the Air Force since February 2011 and at McConnell for three months. In her spare time she enjoys reading, running and ice skating.

She was recognized for her excellent work ethic and ability to set and achieve goals.

"Her outstanding work ethic enabled $46,000 worth of blood products to be sent in support of our troops down range," said Chief Master Sgt. Yvonne Miller, 22nd Medical Group superintendant. "Though only assigned to McConnell for a short time, she has already accumulated over 110 hours volunteering. Recently, she assisted with the Washington D.C. marathon, ensuring the safety of 21,000 runners and 2,000 volunteers, helping raise over $700,000, which went toward nine medical charities."

Tobias finished her career development courses two months ahead of schedule and has already met all of the requirements for her Community College of the Air Force degree, said Miller.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My father would have to be the most positive influence in my life; he has always been my biggest fan and worst critic at the same time. He always has positive, motivating words of wisdom for me in both everyday life and my military career. If it weren't for his guidance throughout the years I wouldn't have become the person I am today.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
The only advice I can really give is just this: "Shoot for the moon; even if you miss you'll land among the stars." I've followed this quote since I first came across it around the 5th grade. If you try your best everyday and in everything you do, you may reach the ultimate goal or fall just a little short but still reap the rewards of all the efforts you put forth into trying to reach the moon.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
Something I would like to accomplish within my first enlistment would be to finish my CCAF degree and also my college degree in clinical laboratory sciences. Ultimately, I would like to accomplish the very big goal of becoming a commissioned officer during my Air Force career.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
Looking at the short list of places I have visited, I would have to say that Hawaii would be one of the most interesting. It has such a different lifestyle over there; less fast paced than it is here. Of course, with all the beaches around everyone seems a little more relaxed and easy going. However I hope the Air Force can help lengthen my list and show me more interesting places full of diversity and different views of the world.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I don't think I could pick just one person because I'm sure I'd be selling myself short on the opportunity to meet someone exceptional. Every day is a great opportunity to meet someone new and get a little glimpse of the differences that makes everyone unique individuals.