FTAC NCOIC, mentor to Airmen earns 'Top Performer' Published June 1, 2010 By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- Team Andersen's newest first-term Airmen enroll in the 36th Force Support Squadron's First Term Airmen Center, a two-week long course that provides seasoned staff members to mentor and groom the newcomers by helping them assimilate into today's operational Air Force. Staff Sgt. Curt Mitchell, 36th FSS NCO-in-charge of FTAC and a 'Top Performer' selection, takes a lead role in setting the right examples for future Airmen to follow despite not being a direct reporting official. "I provide a structured program to help transition Airmen into a mission-oriented environment," Sergeant Mitchell said. "During my time here, I have supervised and mentored more than 500 Airmen on education, Air Force benefits, career progression and financial management." Master Sgt. Isaura Walker, 36th Force Support Squadron career assistance advisor, selected Sergeant Mitchell as Andersen's 'Top Performer' for his commitment to excellence as an instructor and his reflection of Air Force core values. "Sergeant Mitchell is the epitome of a leader and professional," Sergeant Walker said. "His diligence, hard work and service before self made this FTAC one of the best in the Air Force. He was a driving force in the 36th Wing and the 36th Force Support Squadron. He lead from the front in the booster club and numerous other volunteer opportunities base-wide. Sergeant Mitchell works with a spirit of excellence I have seldom encountered before." The Bellevue, Neb., native joined the Air Force August 27, 2002. During his time in the Air Force, he has been to Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, for basic training and Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, for technical training. After completing his first duty assignment at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, he moved on to Andersen Air Force Base and he has made a conscious effort to make the most of his Air Force experience. "I like the opportunities the Air Force has to offer," Sergeant Mitchell said. "The training received, the education benefits offered, the certifications you can receive, leadership, mentorship and experiences while serving are too hard to pass up. I know it sounds 'Hollywood,' but the training you receive in the Air Force sets you and your career up for a successful future, provided you take advantage of what is offered." When Sergeant Mitchell isn't developing the minds of today's Airmen, he's capitalizing on educational opportunities. "The Air Force has given me an education and the ability to see the world," Sergeant Mitchell said. "I have earned my bachelor's degree in Business Administration and am currently working toward a master's degree in Management." Despite a seemingly busy schedule, Sergeant Mitchell finds a little time for everything in his life. "On my off-duty time, I like to spend time with family, continue my education, play X-Box, tinker with computers and electronics, eat, snorkel and lift weights," Sergeant Mitchell said. Although Sergeant Mitchell prepares for his upcoming permanent change of station to Moody Air Force Base, Ga., he continues to leave words of wisdom for future Airmen to follow. "My best advice to anyone new to the island is get out and do things that are outside of your comfort zone," Sergeant Mitchell said. "There are many different things to do and eat here. Unless you get out and try them, you will miss out on what the island has to offer."