MCONNELL 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.

Tech. Sgt. Chad Jensen, 22nd Maintenance Group quality assurance inspector, enlisted in the Air Force in 1998 and has been assigned to McConnell for the past three and a half years. When he is not performing his duties on the flight line, the Terrell, Texas, native enjoys spending time with his wife Amy, and sons, Cole and Cannon. In addition, Jensen is an avid golfer and enjoys working on cars, wood working and fishing.

Jensen is a subject matter expert within the aircraft hydraulic systems career field and well versed in general aircraft maintenance management. As a quality assurance inspector, Jensen monitors the maintenance practices of more than one thousand maintenance technicians.

Recently, Jensen led the group's self-inspection process. He monitored and validated the inputs of over 9,000 inspection items into Air Mobility Command's management internal control toolset. Not only did he ensure the inspection was complied, he advised squadron representatives on input procedures for the new system, said Senior Master Sgt. Marc Scofield, 22nd MXG quality assurance superintendent.

Jensen volunteered to assist the McConnell Enlisted Spouse's Club with the 2012 Dorm Summer Bash. His involvement in preparing food for over 150 dorm residents made this a memorable and enjoyable event. During recent spouse appreciation events, Jensen provided tours of the QA office, briefed visiting spouses on the daily operations within the office, and the importance of their role within the aircraft maintenance community, said Scofield.

Jensen has been working diligently on his off-duty education and soon will complete his last class toward his Community College of the Air Force degree.

"Jensen is always the first person to step up when things need to be accomplished," said Scofield. "He uses his knowledge to evaluate and educate young Airmen on maintenance issues as well as Air Force issues. His attitude exemplifies commitment, constantly proven through his actions. He can always be counted on to bring a fresh perspective and logic based solutions to any situation. Jensen is an instrumental member of our QA team, and vital to the mission of Team McConnell and the Air Force."

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My wife Amy has influenced me the most in my life. She is so motivated and always does the right thing even if it isn't the popular choice. Amy is always striving to volunteer and to better herself through education. She definitely influences me in a positive way and pushes me to be a better person.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
My advice to any new Airman would be to find a mentor as soon as possible. Learning your job and developing as an Airman is your primary focus and a mentor will help you succeed in both. A good mentor will open doors for you and introduce you to benefits of the Air Force that sometimes get lost in the business of day-to-day operations.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
A goal I have recently accomplished was to earn the rank of master sergeant before my 14-year mark. I have also set a goal to receive a bachelor degree before I reach my 20-year mark in the Air Force.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
From 2005 to 2009 I was stationed in Ramstein, Germany, and was able to travel to many different countries. Every country we visited was very unique and interesting in its culture and history. I would say Europe is the most interesting place I have been to. There is a castle or monument in just about every town you visit. Being able to see all the things I read about in the history books, right there in front of me, was amazing.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet any firefighter or policeman that ran into the towers on 9/11 without hesitation, risking their own life to save another. That is the ultimate sacrifice.