Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy (AFSNCOA)

What is a highly underrated leadership quality?

Last week, the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy had the incredible opportunity to host Mark Tilsher and Phil Easton from The Military Sherpa Group for two days of transformative professional development. Our instructors engaged in focused sessions aimed at enhancing leadership, teamwork, and communication. Through these sessions, we explored: ✅ Identifying and understanding our foundational leadership voices ✅ Building confidence in applying our unique leadership styles ✅ Committing to practical application of these insights to elevate our impact ✅ Optimizing team performance and enhancing collaboration ✅ Transforming how we communicate as leaders and team members These lessons are already helping us grow as instructors, leaders, and teammates—equipping us with the tools we need to better serve our Airmen and the mission. A huge thanks to The Military Sherpa Group for bringing their expertise to our Academy and challenging us to push beyond our comfort zones. We’re committed to taking these insights and using them to strengthen our teams, sharpen our leadership, and make a lasting impact. #LeadershipDevelopment #Teamwork #SNCOA #AirForceLeadership

Instructor Highlight & Farewell – Flight Sergeant Bree D. Godfrey Today, we bid a heartfelt farewell to an exceptional instructor, Flight Sergeant (FSGT) Bree D. Godfrey of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), as she returns to her home country of Australia after a distinguished assignment with us here at the Air Force SNCO Academy. FSGT Godfrey brought over two decades of experience in the Australian Defence Force to our academy, sharing unparalleled expertise, professionalism, and perspective. Her role as a Professional Military Education (PME) instructor enhanced our curriculum by providing invaluable insights from one of our closest allies. Throughout her career, FSGT Godfrey has achieved significant milestones, including multiple operational deployments in Indonesia, Afghanistan, Kuwait, and the Middle East, where she contributed to diverse missions. She holds numerous awards, such as the Australian Defence Medal and the prestigious Chief of Defence Force Commendation. At SNCOA, FSGT Godfrey played a vital role in shaping the next generation of enlisted leaders. Her dedication, international perspective, and commitment to excellence strengthened the bonds between our nations and contributed to the development of our Air Force’s senior enlisted corps. As she returns to Australia, we extend our deepest gratitude for her service and wish her continued success. FSGT Godfrey, your impact will be felt for years to come, and you will always have a place in our SNCOA family. 🇺🇸🤝🇦🇺 #SNCOA #InstructorHighlight #Farewell #AlliedPartnerships #ExcellenceInEducation #RAAF

“Think about the difference between training and education. Training helps me understand the checklist. I can do XYZ and it's a known. Education really prepares you for the unknown. Being in a classroom and being educated makes us think more critically about a particular topic.” #EducationVsTraining https://lnkd.in/eMYfd_M4 Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air University Air Education and Training Command United States Air Force

Col. Damian Schlussel, Thomas N. Barnes Center for Enlisted Education commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Stefan Blazier, Air University command chief, discuss the significance of an all-volunteer force and the magnitude of every Airman's commitment to serve. https://lnkd.in/e4AanYXp Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air University Air Education and Training Command United States Air Force

On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of all who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. Today, we reflect on the profound commitment and resilience our veterans have shown, not only in defending our nation but in upholding the values we hold dear—freedom, justice, and democracy. Your service and sacrifice inspire us daily, reminding us that true leadership is rooted in selflessness, strength, and an unyielding commitment to the greater good. You continue to lead with purpose, both in and out of uniform, shaping our communities and paving the way for a brighter future. To our veterans and their families, thank you. We stand with you in gratitude, not just today, but every day. #VeteransDay #ThankYouForYourService #HonoringOurHeroes

🚨 INSTRUCTOR SPOTLIGHT 🚨 SMSgt Cody E. Stollings, originally from Amherst, Ohio, enlisted in the Air Force in 2004. His background includes various duties across the full spectrum of Security Forces operations within deployed, operational, and specialized environments. He served as NCOIC of Vice-Presidential Aircraft Security under President Obama’s administration and has held various leadership positions including Executive Aircraft Security Program Manager, Operations Superintendent, and Senior Enlisted Leader. Cody is married, has a two-year old son, and is currently preparing for retirement and the transition into the civilian sector.   Reflecting on his role as an AFSNCOA instructor, he says, "Being on staff at THE Air Force Senior NCO Academy has been one of the highlights of my career—it was a dream of mine ever since I attended the course back in 2018! Every time I walk into the building, I’m reminded that the feared and revered are crafted here. I’m so honored to have played a small role in this great institution’s mission. I feel like I've grown so much as a SNCO and really found my passion for educating and coaching others. My remarkable teammates and amazing students have challenged me to be a better human being, and for that I’ll always be most grateful.” Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air University Air Education and Training Command

On the eve of Day of Education 1 for Class 25A, here are just SOME of the student comments from the Instructor Feedback area of the End of Course survey from Class 24F. Airmanship 800 has some of the best instructors in the Professional Military Education business! We’re proud of our cadre here, and we can’t wait for Class 25A to experience their passion! Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air University Air Education and Training Command

🚨 INSTRUCTOR SPOTLIGHT 🚨 Senior Master Sergeant Royal Jackson is originally from Kenbridge, Virginia, and enlisted in the Air Force in 2006 as a Services Apprentice. In her free time, Royal enjoys reading, writing, and world travel. “I’m honored to be part of the Air Force Senior NCO Academy team. Everyday, I’m reminded of the important role we play in shaping future leaders, helping SNCOs develop the skills they need to lead and inspire. I am also humbled by the honor to be a part of such a vital mission. The Academy's initiatives to develop the leaders of tomorrow, ensures we continue building a stronger force, and I’m proud to contribute to the future of the Air Force!” Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air University Air Education and Training Command

SNCOs Lead the Way! 💪 The Airmanship 800 and 900 staff came together for staff PT at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball stadium! Everyone got a good workout in, followed by a friendly game of kickball, and then a healthy brunch. Even Air University Command Chief Stefan Blazier joined in on the fun! Barnes Center for Enlisted Education Air Education and Training Command