360 Degree Feedback

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachelle Elsea
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  There may be times in an Airman's career when rank interferes with their ability to communicate. At the Airey NCO Academy, the goal is to break down that barrier.

For more than a decade, the academy has hosted an Airmen's Panel for every class that comes through. The program allows volunteer Airmen and NCOs to gain honest and open feedback without any fear of consequences.

After introductions, the one-hour session begins with discussion between the Technical Sergeants and the Airmen.

"It starts out with the students asking the Airmen questions and receiving feedback," said Tech. Sgt. Liesbeth Watson, Airey NCO Academy flight instructor. "But, we also give the Airmen a chance to ask questions and receive feedback from the students. So it is a circle, or you could call it, 360 degree feedback."

The idea originated from a similar program used at the senior NCO academies, where students gather in a larger setting with fewer Airmen. The Airey NCO Academy has made it their own.

"The Airmen are split up between 19 classrooms," said Senior Master Sgt. Ray Greebon, Airey NCO Academy director of education. "We try and send one to two Airmen in each room, with around 15 students."

The student's questions focus on how they can improve in their role as a supervisor.

"I think getting a perspective from the Airmen will benefit me as a supervisor," said Tech Sgt. Shanda De Anda, Southern Command public affairs NCO in charge, Miami, Fla. "As an NCO, the longer we are in the less we remember about how it feels to be a new Airman. The feedback is crucial."

Then, the Airmen are given the chance to discuss issues they have with their own supervisors.

"Being able to talk with the NCO Academy students was enlightening," said Senior Airman Mike Wait, 325th Communication Squadron customer service technician. "It was a great opportunity to share with senior leaders."

The program is also an opportunity for the instructors to see what they have been teaching come to life.

"I watch the light bulbs come on," said Sergeant Watson. "It does not become a reality until an Airman actually sits before them and they can see their impact as a supervisor."