Joint base Airmen welcome new career advisor Published Aug. 12, 2010 By Airman 1st Class Dennis L. Sloan Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- A new career assistance advisor took office in June at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. Master Sgt. Dennis M. Austin, an electrical and environmental specialist for the last 15 years, has volunteered for the special duty position of CAA. His primary role as CAA is to advise officers and enlisted members on their careers and provide information on financial opportunities and re-enlistment incentives. "A CAA's role is incredibly important because he will be working with the First Term Airmen's Course," said 87th Air Base Wing Command Chief Master Sgt. Warren L. Wofford. "He is an important voice in welcoming new Airmen to the Air Force and is indispensible to them when it comes time for re-enlistment, retraining and even understanding Air Force policy." Airmen attending FTAC will have the opportunity to meet Austin and learn about what his position means to them. "The decisions we make as Airmen have a tremendous impact on the rest of our lives," said Austin. Austin said he is very passionate about helping Airmen make the right decisions in their careers and their lives. Assisting Airmen with re-enlistment decisions is a large portion of his job, along with showing what options they have for retraining into another Air Force Specialty Code or earning a commission, he added. "Airmen and officers should know they can feel comfortable coming to me for not only career decisions but for any reason whatsoever," said Austin. "I have an open door policy." With such an important duty as guiding Airmen down the right career path, a career assistance advisor must meet strict requirements, such as ranking E-7 or higher, having a skill level of at least 7 in their specific AFSC, being recommended by their unit commander, having the ability to speak distinctly and possessing high standards of military appearance and conduct. "Making the right career decision at the appropriate time can lead to a very satisfying career with the Air Force," said Austin. "The information is not always easy to find and many times comes available after it is too late." Austin has replaced Senior Master Sgt. Dwana Moore, who served for more than 25 years in the Air Force. "Moore has had a phenomenal impact on the professional and personal lives of her fellow Airmen," said Linda Richardson, 87th Force Support Squadron Chief of Force Development Flight. "We acknowledge the essential position she leaves behind and the importance of filling it with an equally-capable and compassionate enlisted leader." "Austin has the right temperament, the right passion and the right confidence for the position of CAA," said Wofford. "He is absolutely the right man for this job at JB MDL and we are very proud to have him on board." Airmen or officers seeking Austin's assistance should call 754-3949. Austin's office is located on the second floor of Bldg. 2610.