JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. –
The 305th Air Mobility Wing hosted the Operational Support Squadron Symposium at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., with Squadron Commanders and Senior Enlisted Leaders convening to discuss the latest trends and challenges in operational support.
The symposium, which ran from April 19-20, 2023, enabled Airmen and Guardians to communicate with Functional Managers from Air Force Headquarters to solve complex issues affecting their multifaceted aviation support mission sets.
Key topics discussed at the symposium included the challenges of integrating new technologies into operational support systems, improving interoperability between different branches of the military, and implementing the Air Force Force Generation model AFFORGEN.
“The most beneficial part about the symposium is definitely the ability to collaborate with different OSS units,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Garrick Lee Steber, 305th Airfield Operations Flight Commander. “The networking opportunities and ability to potentially solve issues already resolved by other units is a great opportunity for everyone.”
The collaboration also allowed participants to showcase and witness the latest advancements in air power technology, including new virtual reality software for Air Traffic Controllers, advanced sensors and communication equipment, and improved weather systems. These new technologies enhance the Air Force's ability to rapidly deploy and operate in contested environments, while also improving command and control capabilities.
Cutting-edge technology is one vital aspect of the Air Force Future Operating Concept, but symposium keynote speaker Lt. Gen. Richard C. Moore, deputy chief of staff for Plans and Programs with Headquarters Air Force, also discussed the importance of leadership and Airmen development in the Air Force.
“There are things a Commander and Senior Enlisted Leaders can do for their Airmen that only they can do,” said Moore. “It’s extremely rewarding when you can metaphorically turn a screw that only you can turn and actually provide help to your Airmen.”
Developing innovative leaders is crucial to the success of the Air Force’s Operational Imperatives. Events like the OSS Symposium enable military leaders and Airmen to implement the Air Force Chief of Staff’s Action Orders by training and empowering them to make the tough decisions.
“Trained appropriately, Airmen do not have to wait for orders from higher headquarters to make bold decisions and take advantage of fleeting opportunities,” said Lt. Gen. S. Clinton Hinote, Air Force Futures director, during the 2023 Air and Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium in Aurora, CO, on March 7th.
The symposium emphasized the 305th AMW’s preparation for the fight of the future and commitment to staying at the forefront of global mobility, innovative leadership and connecting the Joint Force.