Air Force Reserve Command transforms more than 100 First Sergeant vacancies across the force into career advancement opportunities for emerging leaders who want to make a difference in the lives of fellow Airmen.
The command actively recruits technical sergeants eligible for promotion and master sergeants to fill these critical leadership positions, which serve as the direct link between commanders and enlisted personnel.
"With over a hundred vacancies across Air Force Reserve Command, this is a real opportunity for our motivated leaders to step up and make a difference," said Chief Master Sgt. Eric Orndoff, command first sergeant at Headquarters Air Force Reserve Command. "These positions are absolutely critical. They're the trusted advisors to the commander, that vital link in the chain of command."
First Sergeants represent one of the most visible and impactful enlisted positions in the Air Force. The role offers participants the chance to influence squadron culture, support Airmen during tough times, and develop leadership skills that benefit both military and civilian careers.
"Taking on the First Sergeant role is far more than just a job. It's a professional milestone," Orndoff said. "The skills you develop in this position - leadership, empathy, conflict resolution, mentorship - they're invaluable. They'll benefit you in all aspects of your life, long after you take off the diamond."
The First Sergeant plays an indispensable role in ensuring squadron readiness, working closely alongside the Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader. They bridge the gap between leadership's intent and mission execution at the ground level.
"The absence of a dedicated First Sergeant leaves a void in the squadron's support structure," Orndoff explained. "Without that dedicated expertise, the squadron may struggle to proactively identify and address potential issues."
Orndoff addressed common misconceptions about the role, emphasizing it extends far beyond administrative duties.
"One misconception is the notion that the First Sergeant role is primarily administrative. That couldn't be further from the truth," he said. "The core of the job is all about leadership. It's centered on people, readiness, and resilience."
Current First Sergeants across the command echo the transformative impact of the position. Master Sgt. Marco Andrade, First Sergeant of the 514th Civil Engineer Squadron, described how the role has been personally fulfilling.
"This position has been so personally rewarding to me by the people I have interacted with, the meaningful connections I have made, and the lives and careers I have personally helped," Andrade said.
Senior Master Sgt. Brian Cooke, First Sergeant of the 35th Aerial Port Squadron, noted the leadership skills developed in the position benefit both military and civilian careers. The skills even improved his personal life.
"My wife has even mentioned noticing a positive difference in my patience and the way I interact with our children since returning from the First Sergeant Academy," Cooke said.
Both First Sergeants emphasized the importance of proper motivation when considering the role. Andrade stressed the need for genuine commitment to helping others.
"My advice to anyone interested in applying for the position is to not only do it for the advancement of your career but also for the desire to make a positive difference in someone else's life," Andrade said. "This is a selfless position, and you have to go into it with that mindset."
Cooke reinforced that perspective, warning against pursuing the role for the wrong reasons.
"The role of a First Sergeant is rooted in selflessness and a genuine commitment to taking care of people," Cooke said. "If you approach it with that mindset, it can be the most rewarding and best position in the Air Force."
Interested Airmen can begin exploring opportunities by shadowing their current First Sergeant or attending First Sergeant Council meetings. Many successful candidates start as Additional Duty First Sergeants before transitioning to full time positions.
The application process includes an interview with the wing's Command Chief Master Sergeant and attendance at the First Sergeant Academy. Requirements include recent performance evaluations, current fitness scores, a CCAF degree or equivalent, medical clearance and official military biography.
Airmen interested in learning more should contact their current First Sergeant or Senior Enlisted Leader to discuss available positions and shadowing opportunities within their wing or across the command.