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.

Tech. Sgt. James Peak, 22nd Maintenance Operations Squadron electrical environmental systems instructor and development NCO in charge, was selected as the 22nd Air Refueling Wing spotlight performer for the week of July 2 to 6, 2012.

As a development and electrical/environmental systems instructor, Peak develops and reviews course material and instructs courses.

Recently Peak represented McConnell and the Air Mobility Command in Orlando, Fla., testing virtual systems for an upcoming $4.5 million Air Mobility Command contract supplying the first ever KC-135 Stratotanker virtual maintenance training system. He was also selected to give a flightline reunion tour for the Headquarters Air Force Office of Special Investigations director of base realignment and closure and the OSI HQ director of staff.

"TSgt Peak truly epitomizes the 'whole-person' concept," said Master Sgt. James Noel, 22nd MOS development and instruction section chief. "His commitment and dedication both on and off duty are an example for us all to follow. He is a mature, articulate NCO who brings not only new ideas but solutions."

Peak has been in the Air Force for nine years and has been stationed at McConnell since September 2002. In his spare time, the Fayetteville, Ark., native enjoys collecting and shooting firearms, riding motorcycles, hunting and fishing.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
I can't identify any single person as the most positive influence. My wife's upbeat, loving and positive personality is wonderful. My mom taught me good work ethics and helps keep me focused and my current supervisor and former supervisor are great leaders and have been amazing mentors.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
I suggest they find mentors that they look up to personally and professionally and sit down or work with those people regularly and learn all they can. It is important to remember that not everyone is perfect, so filter through the imperfections. They should find what they like and put it in their toolbox to use later. Without great mentors in my life, I would not be where I am today.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
I recently earned my Community College of the Air Force Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology so my next goal will be a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
I recently traveled to Orlando, to visit some companies about a virtual aircraft maintenance training device contract. It was very interesting to see the "business" side of the Air Force and it was a far cry from the aircraft maintenance environment I have become a used to.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet someone from the past. Any one of the aircraft maintenance pioneers would work. It would be incredible to spend just a few minutes talking with both Charles Edward Taylor, the Wright Brother's mechanic, and Vernon Burge, the co-designer of the first tricycle landing gear.