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Developing the military’s future leaders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Brian Butkus
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Servicemembers from across Joint Total Force Scott gathered at the Global Reach Planning Center where Chief Master Sgt. James Suttles, 375th Airlift Wing command chief, hosted a "Strategies That Result In Promotion Every-time" briefing Jan. 22.

STRIPE is a program developed by Chief Suttles that provides up and coming servicemembers strategies for increasing their chances of promotion.

"I began this program in 1998 when I was a master sergeant," said Chief Suttles. "It took me five times to make technical sergeant and after I figured out the secret to being promoted I told myself when I became a senior leader that I would pass this information down."

The STRIPE program is divided into two segments and those who attended Jan. 22 experienced part I of the briefing.

"STRIPE part I focuses on effective study habits whether it be for a promotion, (career development course) test or even college courses," said Chief Suttles. "Many servicemembers are not familiar with what study habits are best for them. During this briefing I try and help those in attendance recognize where their strong suits are when studying and give them ways to effectively take advantage of them."

Next on the horizon for those wishing to learn more about various studying techniques from Chief Suttles is STRIPE II, which is scheduled for Feb. 22.

"I am really looking forward to attending the second part of this briefing," said Senior Airman Caleb Kennon, 375th Services Squadron readiness apprentice. "I really learned a lot in part I of this program and it's great to see that our enlisted leaders care about developing us into the best Airman we can be."

STRIPE part II takes a slightly different look at promotability.

"My equation for success for part II is 'education + training + experience = career development,'" the chief said. "The more we develop ourselves into our career the greater our chances are for promotion."

This is the third time Chief Suttles has hosted this briefing at Scott and the program is open to all those who wish to attend, including the joint servicemembers.

"To better understand the importance of these briefings we only have to look to the second priority of the Air Force: developing Airmen," said Chief Suttles. "It is safe to say I have geared these programs toward that and encourage all to attend."