AETC command chief visits Little Rock AFB, discusses innovation

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kristine M. Gruwell
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Chief Master Sgt. Juliet Gudgel, command chief of Air Education and Training Command, toured the 314th Airlift Wing and met with AETC Airmen July 23, 2018, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas.

Airmen of all ranks had the opportunity to listen, ask questions and discuss their ideas with Gudgel during her tour focusing on innovation in AETC.

The tour started in the Hercules Dining Facility where Gudgel was joined by Airmen to discuss new technologies being developed. She introduced new applications used on mobile devices so Airmen can have quick access to Air Force information at all times.

One app AETC is developing focuses around Airmen’s careers. To help Airmen who may not be sure of their next step in their career path, the app will show each Air Force specialty code’s career roadmap.

AETC also wants to make sure Airmen have everything they need for leveling up in their career fields. An app that will have the Airman’s Handbook as well as other tools focused on career progress will be included along with interactive capabilities such as games, pretests and flashcards.

One benefit is Airmen don’t have to pay for learning materials.

“We want to give you the tools to be successful as you progress in rank in your Air Force career,” Gudgel said. “Airmen aren’t always at a desktop, so we need to make sure that whatever we develop can work on any device.”

After lunch at the Hercules DFAC, Gudgel proceeded to visit Airman Leadership School followed by an all-call with the 314th AW senior noncommissioned officers. The SNCOs bounced ideas off one another through a discussion led by Gudgel about ways to improve the curriculum for students going through the 314th AW.

Lastly, Gudgel toured the 62nd Airlift Squadron’s “Monster Garage.” The garage is filled with C-130J equipment so students get hands-on learning for what they’re going to be doing every day in a controlled environment.

Throughout her visit, Gudgel emphasized the fact that AETC leadership isn’t in the aircraft teaching students, so they need instructors’ ideas on how to improve the curriculum and environment for students.

“At the end of the day, we aren’t experts in your career fields,” Gudgel said. “The only way we move forward in AETC is through your feedback.”