FTAC NCOIC RECEIVES AF LEVEL AWARD.

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The following information was released by Andrews Air Force Base:

by Airman 1st Class Bahja J. Jones

11th Wing Public Affairs

Each Airman starts his or her Air Force career with mandatory First Time Airmen Center training upon arrival to their first duty station. Nervous and excited, Airmen sit in the week-long course listening to briefings, receiving a tremendous amount of information that will give them the initial understanding of what is required of them as they begin their Air Force journey.

After leaving extreme training environments, where the instructors "scare you into submission," generally, Airmen aren't sure what to expect upon arrival into the "real Air Force." So when Tech. Sgt. Martin enters the room, warm and excited to provide guidance to eager new Airmen, it is no wonder she is being recognized for her outstanding service as an FTAC NCOIC.

Tech. Sgt. Kenya L. Martin, 11th Force Support Squadron First Term Airmen Center non-commissioned officer in charge was awarded the Air Force FTAC NCOIC of 2010 award for her outstanding performance as an FTAC instructor here. This recognition is the highest distinction an FTAC NCOIC can receive Air Force wide.

Sergeant Martin has been in the Air Force for 11 years serving as an aerospace physiology technician, special air missions flight attendant, and now the FTAC NCIOC.

"I could not think of anyone more deserving of this honor. She is a true professional who embodies the concept of service. She goes above and beyond to assist in our Airmen's transition to a mission-oriented mindset," said Senior Master Sgt. Tamar S. Dennis, 11 FSS career assistance advisor. "Her role does not end when the Airmen complete FTAC. She is a constant in their professional growth and continues to actively mentor them in their development."

As the FTAC NCOIC here, Sergeant Martin has developed a number of programs to better assist new Airmen into their Air Force careers.

"Each Airman receives 28 hours of mandatory briefing in accordance with Air Force Instruction, and five additional locally mandated hours of instruction, said Sergeant Martin.

Sergeant Martin developed the first Air Force FTAC informational reference booklet that Airmen can take with them when they leave. The booklet contains various points of contact, office hours for services provided on base, important retraining dates and websites, College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST) preparation guides, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator and Chapel information, she said.

"I enjoy being able to do my NCO duty; taking care of and mentoring Airmen," said Sergeant Martin.

In her classes, Sergeant Martin stresses the importance of being a 'professional' at all times.

"A professional in the sense of continuing your education, striving to become a subject matter expert at your job, and mindful of the importance and what it means to be in the profession of arms," said Sergeant Martin.

Sergeant Martin holds two associates degrees; one in aerospace physiology instruction (CCAF) and another in biotechnology from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She also graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelors of Science in Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She is currently in the application progress with George Washington University and University of Maryland Medical School, she said.

"The Air Force leadership has made it clear to the enlisted force that in order to progress in rank you must have your CCAF. The Education and Internet Technology Briefing curriculum both stress the importance of getting CDC's and CCAF complete in order to be successful in the Air Force," said Sergeant Martin. "According to the 'little brown book,' NCOs must exceed the standards and expectations levied upon their Airmen; so in order to truly say that I lead by example, I have to go above what I've challenged."

Sergeant Martin has been the FTAC NCOIC here since Jan. 2009. Her 2-year contract was extended due to the 11th Wing merger, and she will continue to be the FTAC NCOIC until Feb. 2012.

"Tech. Sgt. Martin is a good instructor, and the NCOIC of the year was well deserved," said Airman 1st Class Dakota Long, 11th Civil Engineer Squadron heavy equipment operator. "She is a great teacher and mentor to new, young Airmen."

"Technical Sgt. Martin has continually lived up to our motto "Poised...Proud...Ready!" She is always ready to take care of our newest Airmen (Poised), exhibits through her uniform and interactions (Pride) and always excels in all tasks because she is always (Ready)!" said Chief Master Sgt. Robert L. Castellano, 11 FSS superintendent. "And that is why Tech. Sgt Martin is the best in the Air Force."