ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The 28th Bomb Wing command chief hosted Backbone University at the Individual Deployment Readiness Center Sept. 5-6, 2017.
The course is designed to empower noncommissioned officers, the backbone of the enlisted corps, to train Airmen to continue the Air Force legacy.
“Backbone University is geared toward Gen. Goldfein’s number two priority, which is joint leader development,” said Chief Master Sgt. Adam Vizi, the 28th Bomb Wing command chief. “This course is extremely important because developing our people at every level is vital to the success of the mission.”
The course teaches NCOs about joint operations, how to lead the new generation of Airmen, how the Air Force differs from the other branches of service, and how Airmen can work in a joint environment.
“The course helps us focus on what is actually needed in the Air Force,” said Staff Sgt. Ashlei Philson, the NCO in charge of assessments and training at the Equal Opportunity Office, assigned to the 28th Bomb Wing. “I think it will assist NCOs such as myself transition into a time where we are more concerned with joint operations.”
The course started with welcoming remarks from Vizi, about why he wanted to bring this course to Ellsworth from Korea. He also offered his perspective on the value of the course and the benefits to NCOs.
“This class helps us understand the roles and responsibilities in the Air Force - the development of Airmen,” said Philson. “NCOs wear several hats and are required to balance their time between people and the mission.”
The 45 students broke up in to four small groups where first sergeants facilitated discussions. The groups talked about NCOs’ everyday life in their units, how they deal with issues in the areas they are responsible for, and how to work with other branches in the Department of Defense.
At the end of the course, Vizi gave closing comments highlighted the students’ performance in the two day course, and how they were acclimating to a changing Air Force.
“This is an opportunity to get back to the basics and reinforce the NCO tier,” said Master Sgt. Matt Keefer, the wing intelligence flight chief, assigned to the 28th Operations Support Squadron. “We are also ensuring we are doing the best to provide for and develop our Airmen.”