Communication is more than talk

Published Jan. 17, 2006
By Capt. Nikki Credic
459th ARW Public Affairs

ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE, Md. -- There are a handful in the 459th Air Refueling Wing who possess skills and responsibilities that keep the unit “connected.” Their jobs are so vital than without them many actions and processes would come to a screeching halt. Who are these mystery men and women who work behind the scenes at commander’s calls and make sure everyone else’s work gets accomplished? They are the members of the 459th Communications Flight, and to them “communication” is more than talk.
“We provide communications and information support in a number of areas,” said Capt. Alison Farver, the 459th Communications Flight commander. “We do computer support in the form of hardware and software installation and upgrades; troubleshooting; account maintenance; and inventory tracking. Additionally, we have radio, telephone, and network equipment maintainers that work with our Guard and active-duty counterparts to provide support to the base in those areas.”
Farver explained that they also act as the functional area managers for the wing’s records management system and run the training program for all information managers.
And you thought that fixing your e-mail boxes were their only concerns.
The 459th Communication Flight is made of three specialties that include computer maintenance personnel, information managers, and communications equipment maintainers.
Training for these specialties is conducted at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., and can last between two to six months. The skills learned during the training are very transferable to the civilian market according to Farver and her troops.
“Most of our skills are very transferable,” said Farver. “Computer skills are in high demand in the civilian world. Information managers are needed in all areas of business and government. Our network and phone maintainers usually have civilian jobs that mirror what they do in uniform.”
Information systems specialist Master Sgt. Michael Fundaro agrees. “The skills I learned in the military are what enable me to get the civilian jobs I have gotten, especially the data networking skills,” said Fundaro. “As a telecommunications engineer I can bring aspects of my civilian job into my reserve job, and vice versa. And, of course, the discipline and dedication of what a military career instills are always welcome in the civilian job market.”
Staff Sgt. Paul Richardson explained that the skills he has learned have proved profitable.
“Because computers are in just about every aspect of every day life and work, there is always a need for computer support,” said Richardson. “I was fortunate enough to acquire some basic Oracle [software] development skills during my active duty time. Those skills have provided a means to move into the civilian world and have been a substantial means of financial income.”
For those who may want to join this crew of computer savvy individuals, information technology specialist Airman 1st class Daniel Schneider explained that there are some prerequisites.
“I hope you like reading techno babble and love computers,” he said. You should also like people according to Richardson. “Customer service tends to be the core of this career field, in relation to computer support needs,” Richardson said. “Be prepared to work directly with users to resolve their issues in a timely and courteous manner.”
Farver agreed with the members of her staff and added that a career in communications is worth looking at.
“It’s a great career field to get into for both your Air Force duty and your civilian career,” she said, “but be prepared for a long tech school and lots of training.” In the meantime, Farver believes the most important thing members should know about the 459th Communications Flight is that “we’re here to serve.”