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Meet Lt. Col. Eric Trias, new CYSS commander

  • Published
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BAE, Ill. --  

Lt. Col. Eric Trias assumed command of the Air Force Space Command Cyberspace Support Squadron on July 15.

CYSS provides cyber networking expertise to Air Force Space Command.

They are responsible for defining enterprise requirements for new cyber systems, managing sustainment to existing cyber programs, and assisting Headquarters AFSPC program element monitors by providing products that aid in successful planning, programming, budgeting, and execution activities for cyberspace programs.

 

What led you to join the Air Force?

I am one of seven children, and there was no money for college. My family has a long tradition of military service, and I always wanted to join, so I enlisted. I chose the Air Force because, it was the most “high-tech” of all the services. The Air Force was born out of technology.

 

When did you decide you wanted to become an officer?

My initial goal was to finish my bachelor’s degree while enlisted. I always wanted to become an officer, in order to have a larger influence on the mission and people’s lives. Fortunately, I was selected for the Airman’s Education and Commissioning Program and attended college full-time on active duty.

 

Was there a specific goal in mind when you became an officer?

To be a commander. I’m fortunate to take over AFSPC CYSS as my second command.

Additionally, the Air Force continues to have many opportunities that we may not hear about. However, I knew that if I worked hard and prepared myself, then when opportunities come, I will be ready to take advantage. I was able to complete my PhD while on active duty, which was never one of my initial career goals.

 

What is your favorite Air Force memory?

My initial encounter with Scott Air Force Base is always one of my fondest memories. When I was a Staff Sgt. and Gen. Fogleman was the Air Mobility Command commander, I had the privilege of going TDY from Travis AFB to Scott AFB to compete for the AMC Twelve Outstanding Airmen of the Year award. My wife accompanied me for a week on TDY orders. We, along with the other nominees, were treated like VIPs as we toured the base and St. Louis. Fortunately, I won and represented AMC to the AF 12 OAY competition (where I was not selected).

 

What can your Airmen expect from you?

They can expect that I will listen. They may not like the decision, but they can be assured that I’ve weighed their position. Also, they can expect that I will be their champion advocate for resources and recognition.

 

What do you expect from the Airmen?

To live by the Air Force Core Values! I expect my Airmen to strive to do their best to make things better. I expect them to provide feedback. They usually have most of the good ideas as they are typically the experts in their field. By opening their aperture a bit to consider the scope of their issues, they can help shape today and advance tomorrow’s Air Force.

 

What advice would you give Airmen?

Be a lifelong learner! Embrace the opportunities on and off duty to explore a variety of subjects. As a simple example, think about how our cell phones have changed over the years and what we can do with it now. Technology will continue to move fast, and the only way to keep up is to keep learning.

 

 

What do you look forward to the most?

I look forward to spreading the word on the great contributions AFSPC CYSS provides to the AF mission. Further, I look forward to helping people reach milestones in their career, project, or life goals. Everyone has a story, and I’d like to be a positive part of it.

 

Do you have a leadership philosophy?

Serve your people and they will serve the Air Force well! Make it better, make it last, and have fun while you’re doing it!

 

 

 

How do you feel about being at Scott AFB?

I am very excited to be here! My family and I are settling in and getting to know the community better. The large number of folks that settle and continue to work here post-military career is indicative of the great environment at Scott and the surrounding communities.