KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- When it comes to developing multi-capable and innovative minds who also lead and follow, the Wolf Pack Professional Enhancement Center (PEC) helps Airmen build upon their basic foundations and improve the Air Force with their individual contributions.
The PEC is a focal point for force development that provides Airmen space for learning away from their workplaces and a class structure for group discussions. The facility is used to teach First Term Airmen Course (FTAC), professional development seminars and Airman leadership school.
“There are a lot of benefits that you can get from our courses,” said Master Sgt. Joseph Ryan Bonita, 8th Force Support Squadron Kunsan development advisor. “It can enhance your skill and knowledge; most of the instructors who teach PEC courses are senior NCOs or subject matter experts.”
The courses are designed to promote open discussion, teamwork and collaboration. This affords Airmen of all ranks the chance to work with others from different units and see both the differences and similarities between operations.
“You can learn from [the SME’s] experiences and gain a different perspective on a topic that they can apply in your work centers,” Bonita added. “This helps personnel with identifying areas for improvement and finding new ways to tackle problems.”
Bonita said their courses can challenge service members outside their comfort zone, support self-reflection and boost self-improvement.
For many Airmen, the PEC helps develop their skills right out of technical school and sets them up for the operational work environment.
“Basic Military Training was very structured, but the operational Air Force is a lot different from that,” said Staff Sgt. Edward Kim, 8th FSS FTAC NCO in charge. “As instructors, we’re the first ones introducing them to the operational Air Force and give our experiences and advice, which they take and carry to their jobs.”
Kim said teaching Airmen to be as open minded as possible is key to helping them think innovatively. When combined with resiliency tools, they can change their shops by bringing in new perspectives.
“[Being open-minded] provides a creative aspect in problem solving that we encounter for our mission here. Kunsan’s challenges can be unique compared to other places.
At the end of the day, once the PEC equips them with these skills, the Airmen go on to be leaders, and bring the process back full circle.
“We can be trained to do something, but we must develop the skills, ability and, most importantly, share that knowledge we gained,” Bonita said.