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People on the Move: Staff Sgt. Joleen Outland

  • Published
  • By Bob Fehringer
  • U.S. Transportation Command
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Nearly 10 years ago, Staff Sgt. Joleen Outland did a bad thing but in a good way.
"I was two weeks away from going to college and at the last minute, I joined the Air Force without telling anyone," Sergeant Outland, 28, said. 

"I was always searching to find where I 'belonged.' I thought the Air Force would open more doors than any college ever could and allow me the opportunity to explore and be part of something bigger and better. I don't regret my decision." 

The LaFayette, N.Y. native came to USTRANSCOM after a nine-year tour at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, N.C. She works in the personnel section where she administers planning and execution of all management-level review boards for officer promotion. 

"I also handle all Air Force evaluations for enlisted and officer personnel," Sergeant Outland said. "I assist with the in and out processing of personnel to USTRANSCOM and I'm responsible for all officer and enlisted promotion releases." 

Sergeant Outland says her fellow workers are more close-knit than at her last, strictly Air Force assignment. 

"The camaraderie is amazing," she said. "I love it, it's a great learning experience. It's very interesting to see how different but alike each service is. The greatest part is we are all one team and everyone plays an important part. 

"While the joint environment is a great place to work, I've found it challenging learning each services' unique personnel process. Not only do you have to learn and adapt, but you have to teach others, too." 

After duty, Sergeant Outland says she loves spending time with her husband, J.D., and their daughters, Katlyn Marie, 8, and Lacie Madison, 2. She also enjoys playing volleyball, shopping, dancing, interior decorating, movies and being stationed at Scott. 

"Although I never pictured myself in the Midwest, I have enjoyed every minute here," Sergeant Outland said. "The weather is great, especially (when) compared to New York winters. And there is plenty of entertainment and opportunity."