New career assistance advisor paves way for Airmen

First-term Airmen often find themselves unsure of their next career move. Whether Airmen find themselves pondering separation, reenlisting, or cross-training, Tyndall’s Career Assistance Advisor can help Airmen make the right decision.

Master Sgt. James Rollins, from the 325th Force Support Squadron, has served a 19-year career to date and understands the importance of well-thought out career moves.

Born and raised in southeast Texas, Rollins grew up working in his father’s mechanic shop. At the ripe age of 17, and with a signed waiver, Rollins enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1998. Rollins has worked in several career fields and throughout his career has completed a bachelor’s degree and is currently working toward a master’s degree.

The career assistance advisor is a special duty position in which information, tools, resources and career guidance are offered to Airmen.

“I am the principal advisor to commanders and supervisors on retention issues and assist in career counseling. I develop, supervise and manage Air Force retention programs,” Rollins said. “I advise on career progression and planning; monitor mandatory pay and benefits programs; and conduct advertising and publicity programs.”

Rollins also advises both officers and enlisted Airmen on enlisted retention activities and programs; conducts interviews to determine factors that negatively influence the career decision, and develops programs to address local concerns.

“I support Airmen by giving them the tools and information they need to make sound career decisions whether they plan on staying in or separating,” said Rollins. “I love working with others and helping them succeed.”

The programs that fall under the CAA are First Term Airmen Center and implementation of Enlisted Professional Enhancement programs. Those programs include the Informed Decision Seminar and Senior NCO/NCO professional enhancement seminars.

“To aid in Tyndall’s mission, I will give each Airman dependable knowledge they can use to make well-advised career decisions,” Rollins stated. “Without our Airmen we cannot train and project unrivaled combat air power.”

Beginning in July, the CAA will start implementing the Airmanship 300 curriculum in the FTAC. The new material will consist of 13 hours of professionalism topics and discussions.

“We are putting first term Airmen into the mission mindset and creating an environment to further develop their warrior ethos by reinforcing lessons learned from Basic Military Training and Technical Training yet allowing them opportunities to network and build healthy relationships,” said Rollins.