22nd AMXS 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 the Air Force's Core Values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Senior Airman Cassandra Carvalheira, 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron communications and navigations journeyman, was selected as the 22nd ARW spotlight performer for the week of Nov. 25 to 29.

Carvalheira joined the Air Force in December 2010 and arrived at McConnell in September 2011. Her duties include inspecting and repairing the communication and navigation avionics systems on KC-135 Stratotankers.

"When she's not busy on the flight line," said Capt. Ian Mazerski, 22nd AMXS green aircraft maintenance unit officer in charge, "Carvalheira is responsible for ensuring new comm-nav technicians in-process properly and are taken care of during their initial orientation period."

The San Ramon, Calif., native enjoys playing soccer, watching movies and spending time with her wife during her free time.

Who is the most positive influence in your life and why?
My wife is the most positive influence in my life because she helps push me to be everything I want to be in life.

If you could give advice to a new Airman, what would it be and why?
The advice I would give to new Airmen is to take advantage of the tuition assistance program. Taking classes can help when competing for senior airman below-the-zone and opens more opportunities for life after the Air Force.

What is one goal that you have already accomplished, or would like to accomplish, during your Air Force career?
When I joined, I wanted to make BT. I accomplished that goal last year. This year, my goal is to make staff sergeant.

Where is the most interesting place you have traveled and why do you feel that way?
The most interesting place I have been to is Greece. I travelled there on vacation last year, and I loved their history and culture.

If you had the opportunity to meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would like to meet President Barack Obama, because he has overcome obstacles in his life to be where he is today, and I think he is a great leader for our country. He has also pushed for changes to the "don't ask, don't tell" policy and the Defense Of Marriage Act which have affected me and my family greatly.