Q & A with new 932nd Airlift Wing commander Published March 23, 2016 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Col. Jonathan M. Philebaum, the new 932nd Airlift Wing commander, assumed command Feb. 7. He most recently served as commander of the 512th Operations Group at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, where he oversaw Air Force Reserve flying operations and worldwide employment of the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17A Globemaster III. Philebaum believes the best asset is the people that make the mission run, and it is his goal to ensure everyone meets the vision of innovation, professionalism, and unrivaled force posture to meet the global challenges of tomorrow. Q: What led you to joining the Air Force? A: My father was in the Army and while he didn't make a career out of it, he instilled in me a sense of patriotic service and commitment. Also, as a recent college graduate, I needed a job and some structure in my life. Q: What is your favorite Air Force memory? A: Long term relationships with great people. Running into someone from 30 years ago who was a life-changing influence on young Lt. Philebaum. Desert Shield/Desert Storm gave me a focused purpose for being a member of the USAF; promotions, deployments, and homecomings were major milestones. Q: What is your leadership philosophy? A: Take care of people and they will take care of the mission! Set a higher standard than required, everyone should exhibit absolute integrity and ethics. The 932nd Airlift Wing will continue to train as part of the Air Force Reserve and will remain an integrated, flexible and combat-ready force providing accessible and sustainable capabilities as an Air Force Component supporting our national security. We've got a great track record here in Illinois being combat ready, cost effective and experienced! Q: What can the 932d Airlift Wing Airmen expect from you? A: I have three engagement priorities. First is the readiness of and care for our members, second is that we can execute the mission of providing unrivaled, mission-ready citizen Airmen in the critical function of senior leader special air movement and third is to nurture the Team Scott and community partnerships. I ask a lot of questions, probe the culture, connect then understand the processes, lead on all issues, set reasonable policies and provide unambiguous guidance. Q: What is your favorite part of being a commander? A: Engaging with our members on both a personal and professional level in accomplishing the mission. Q: What advice do you have for those under your leadership? A: Know your job, do your job; guard an appropriate work/life balance; use and keep the standards; be invested in your Airmen, and be a life-long learner Q: Do you have anything else you would like to add? A: I'm very humbled, honored and excited to be here, and I look forward to everyday. Hobbies include: my family who is very important to me, we ride horses and while not very skilled, I like to work with wood in furniture making. We have the greatest Air Force in the world, and I have the best job in that Air Force!