New command chief’s vision is communication

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daryl Knee
  • 90th Space Wing Public Affairs
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  The new command chief for the 90th Space Wing recently arrived here and has been promoting a specific idea for leadership.

Command Chief Master Sgt. Tammy Elliott believes that the most successful approach to leadership rests in the processes of communication.

"Communication is probably the most important thing in leadership -- both ways," Chief Elliott said. "I represent the enlisted core to the commander. I also convey the wishes of the commander to them. It's critical that I understand the needs from all ranges of the enlisted."

Chief Elliott has had extensive experience working with people and facilitating solutions to their problems as a first sergeant for a combined nine years.

"People are my business," said the Idaho-native. "I've brought that attitude into this position. If I plan to represent everyone to the fullest, they have to know me and I have to know them."

Communication between all levels of leadership is important because everyone should have a clear idea of the Air Force and the wing missions, Chief Elliott said. Regarding the rapid rate of change of the Air Force, information sometimes doesn't reach Airmen in the lower echelon of rank.

"I plan to articulate more clearly where the Air Force is going and get feedback from the lowest levels," Chief Elliott said. "You can't always give news that everyone wants; however, they will be heard. And when the Airmen don't get the information they want to hear, I'm going to tell them why."

Chief Elliott is also an advocate for education.

"Education is absolutely critical, not just because of how promotions work now, but it broadens the character of a person and their leadership skills," Chief Elliott said. "But if being promoted is all you go to school for, you've missed the boat. Shame on you," she said with a shake of her finger.

The stresses of military life, coupled with the time involved enhancing education, present unique difficulties communicating even within a family. It doesn't have to be that way, Chief Elliott said.

"People tend to draw that line in the sand," she said. "But bring your family into the Air Force life. Introduce them to Air Force concepts so they can understand and be a part of it.

"Communication, communication, communication," Chief Elliott said with a firm nod of her head.