KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Kirtland Air Force Base hosted a Joint Services Panel at the Sam E. Parish Airman Leadership School (ALS) Oct. 18, bringing together non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and senior non-commissioned officers (SNCOs) from the Air Force, Space Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. The panel focused on the challenges and opportunities of working in a joint service environment, emphasizing the need for collaboration and adaptability among future leaders.
The discussion highlighted the evolving nature of military operations, where service members from different branches are increasingly called upon to work together. The panelists shared their experiences and insights on how ALS graduates can successfully navigate these joint environments, underscoring the importance of communication, respect for inter-service differences, and a unified approach to mission objectives.
Tech. Sgt. Blake Mathews, an instructor at the Sam E. Parish ALS, provided key insight into the school's role in preparing future leaders. "I can come up with 1,000 scenarios," Tech Sgt. Mathews said, "but as soon as they get out into the real world, they will come across scenario 1,001. I am providing students with the methodology to adapt to new scenarios." Sergeant Mathews stressed that ALS equips students with the tools to handle the unexpected while staying true to the core values of the Air Force. "Formulating their own answer that is in line with the values the Air Force instills," he added.
The panel underscored the importance of leadership development in a joint service environment, preparing airmen for diverse missions alongside members from all branches of the U.S. military. ALS continues to be a vital stepping-stone in cultivating adaptable, confident leaders for tomorrow's challenges.
The panel was composed of U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Ishman, 415th Aircraft Maintenance Unit, Petty Officer 1st Class Earl Bellamy, Navy Reserve Recruiting Command, U.S. Space Force Master Sgt. Jimmy Cardenas, Space Systems Command, Sgt. Maj. Julian Dan, 4th Law Enforcement Battalion, and Chief Master Sgt. Ireneo Alfaro, 377th Medical Group.