A STEP in the right direction

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachelle Blake
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  A medical group Airman received a Stripes for Exceptional Performers promotion Nov. 26 during the December promotion ceremony at the Horizons Community Center.

Master Sergeant Craig Hutchinson, 325th Medical Operations Squadron Maternal Child Flight Chief, was promoted from technical sergeant to master sergeant after his leadership team submitted him for the STEP program.

The STEP program awards the next higher rank to exceptionally performing Airmen who are staff sergeants or higher, and who have tested for the next rank, but were not able to meet the cutoff in terms of points.

Hutchinson has been in the Air Force for more than 18 years and finds mentoring Airmen is his greatest achievement.

"Right now, I am in charge of two clinics, the pediatrics and the women's health clinic," said Hutchinson. "I love the management side, having influence over the younger Airmen."

His dedication to the job and his Airmen has paid off greatly during his career.

Hutchinson was awarded the 325th MDOS NCO of the Year in 2011 and 2012, 325th Medical Group NCO of the Year in 2012, 21st Training Wing Sarah Wells Award in 2010, 60th Medical Group NCO of the Quarter in 2005, 81st Inpatient Squadron NCO of the Quarter in 2008 and 2009, Military Training Leader of the Quarter in 2004, and 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Medic of the Month in 2003.

He has also earned his Community College of the Air Force associates degree and is working toward a Bachelor's degree in Health Care Management.

Hutchinson said he is thankful to all those who have helped make him the Airman he is today.

"My leadership has mentored me and set me up for success," said Hutchinson. "I also have to thank my family because there are a lot of late nights and early mornings. I love the Air Force. It has treated me very well."

And they, in turn, said they feel just as strongly about his dedication.

"Master Sergeant Craig Hutchinson is the epitome of a military professional who cares for his people and his mission," said Lt. Col. Lionel M. Clyde, 325th MDOS commander. "He tirelessly ensures that his responsibilities are taken care of and daily seizes every opportunity to go above and beyond expectations. He is truly deserving of this STEP promotion to master sergeant. The Air Force has gained another outstanding Senior NCO."