22nd MDG supervisor receives commander’s coin

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  Col. Joel Jackson 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, recognizes top supervisory performance by giving supervisors a commander's coin.

Staff Sgt. Gabriel Villalobos, 22nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron dental technician, was awarded a commander's coin April 1, 2014, for his outstanding performance as a supervisor.

It was another repeat workday for Villalobos until an unexpected visitor arrived at his work station.

"It was a very big surprise," said Villalobos. "I was not expecting Col. Jackson to come over today and actually coin me for my duties as a supervisor."

His devotion as a supervisor was noticed by his leadership when he helped to improve the professional development of his first troop.

"While first becoming a supervisor, he found out that his first Airman was struggling in a few areas, such as dorm failures, late attendances, poor work performance and career development course challenges," said Chief Master Sergeant Yvonne Miller 22nd MDG superintendant.

Villalobos used his difficult situation as an opportunity to guide and mentor his new Airman.

"Staff Sgt. Villalobos got into his Airman's 'business' and established expectations, study sessions, visited his dorm and truly embraced taking care of his Airmen," said Miller. "Because he cared and had such a hands-on approach, he was able to modify negative behaviors this Airman had displayed."

Villalobos's ability to communicate with his troop aided his success as a supervisor. He recommends that others develop their communication skills as well.

"Try to be open with your supervisors," said Villalobos. "Open communication is key and trust is especially another factor that goes into a supervisor and supervisee relationship. Once you have that established, the sky is the limit."

While he is thankful for the surprise visit from his leadership, he is aware that there are many more supervisors who are also making a difference.

"It makes me feel great and helps me know that I am doing my job correctly," said Villalobos. "Now I just hope that there are others out there who get recognized for what they do every day as well."