Seeking Mentorship

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jocelyn A. Ford
  • 86th Airlift Wing/Public Affairs

The Kaiserslautern Military Community offers a multitude of opportunities for personal and professional development. Opportunities are readily found at every turn.

Mentor is a word heard daily around the Air Force, and the KMC is overflowing with individuals eager to share their knowledge and experience with anyone who is in need of advice or guidance.

Private organizations are at every peer group within the KMC, as well as each of our mission partners individually, to include the First Four, 5/6, Top 3, First Sergeants Council and Chief’s Group. Each offer the opportunity for mentorship at every general membership meeting, but that’s not the only place to find a mentor.

“You also have mentors in work sections, flights, squadrons, events, chaplains and the list goes on,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jamie Kopp, 86th Maintenance Squadron nondestructive inspection noncommissioned officer-in-charge and 5/6 vice president. “Every corner you turn, there is someone willing to help you become the best version of yourself.”

Staff Sgt. Melissa Edwards, 24th Intelligence Squadron threat analysis technician, attends events regularly in search for more mentors. She picked up a flyer in her dorm when she first arrived here and has attended the monthly Let’s Connect meetings ever since.

“I was an A1C when I first started out, and now I’m a staff sergeant.” Edwards said. “They’ve been mentoring me for a long time.”

Even though she has found mentors within the Let’s Connect community, Edwards continues her search.

“I’m always looking for those mentors and people that can help me,” Edwards said. “I plan on doing 20 years so I feel like the more people I get to know, the more examples I have. Even if it’s what to do or what not to do, it’s all beneficial in some way shape or form.”

January is known as National Mentoring Month. In the KMC, every day is recognized as an opportunity for mentorship. If you’re struggling, reach out or get involved. If you have a unique story, tell it; someone else may need to hear exactly what you have to say.