“It was hard. I loved my previous assignment.”

Several years ago, Kathy was given the position of commander of the base. She was voluntold that she would assume this position two weeks before it happened. She could have refused but it was a high honor and would give her the opportunity to experience many other things. This was a big deal! It was hard because she loved her previous assignment but knew she was ready and would regret not accepting the offer.

“Being in the Armed Forces, you constantly have to deal with change.”

Kathy doesn’t like change. This change was difficult although she hates to admit it. Being in the Armed Forces, you continuously have to deal with change. She had been involved in ten programs, and there were changes almost daily. She knew she had to adapt. She had a conversation with her family about the job’s requirements since it would be the protocol for her to attend funerals and weddings. Her family would have to go with her and stay for long hours. Her family gladly supported her.

In the Air Force, flexibility is critical. The United States is the major Air Force power in the world, and personnel must be the best fit to perform their jobs. She would be the leader of fifty troops. She had to be self-assured.

Kathy S. was interviewed for the ASPECTS OF CHANGE book and consented to share her experience. Many things have changed since the interview.