CMSAF Cody shares advice on EPR, AF changes ahead

by Airman 1st Class Megan Friedl
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

1/22/2014 - SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The Air Force is moving forward with new programs affecting the enlisted corps and Airmen need to learn how to adapt and deal with the changes ahead.

Those were just two messages shared by Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Cody during his visit here Jan. 15-17. Cody and his wife, Athena, spent several days meeting with Airmen to discuss changes that involved the Enlisted Evaluation System and force management programs affecting the troops.

A hot topic during two Airman's Calls and smaller focus groups was potential changes to the Enlisted Evaluation System. Cody explained the Air Force is not looking at numbers to determine an Airman's performance, but a word picture that describes the performance.

"You either perform to a certain level or you don't, and we want to be able describe that in words," said Cody.

He said changes to the Enlisted Evaluation System will be better for supervisors and for Airmen-- along with it being more efficient, it will better delineate and reward those who excel.

"Most people just want honest and constructive feedback as well as a more level playing field for everyone. The reality is there is always a top performing Airman, and supervisors need to evaluate their Airmen accordingly."

In the most recent "CHIEFChat," which can be viewed on www.af.mil, Cody stated Airmen will start to see the evolution of the EES when they see the release of the new feedback forms, called the Airman Comprehensive Assessment.

Another message Cody wished to emphasize was Airmen need to support each other as the Air Force goes through the historic force management changes to reduce the size of the force. Among the efforts are enlisted retention boards, something that has not been done before with junior enlisted members.

"Some Airmen will be losing their jobs and the Air Force is doing all it can to work voluntary measures first, followed by the forced reductions," Cody said. "Everyone probably knows someone who is affected by these life-changing actions, so "we need to be there for each other. We have to help the Airmen and the families who are going through this in a way that is meaningful."

As people navigate this "sea of change," Cody said he expected Airmen to be the best they can be.

"There are a lot of Airmen in the Air Force. We need to make sure there's a lot of Air Force in Airmen." They do that, he said, by taking pride in the uniform, and displaying integrity and dedication to their service.

"Don't lose faith with your Service over these challenges," said Cody. "Remember the pride in what you do for our nation. It's still the greatest Air Force in the world because of the men and women who serve ... and it still will be as we go through these reductions."

Airman 1st Class Bradley Beetz, 375th Communication Squadron, said "I think Chief Cody is really looking out for the Airmen and has the best interest for us."

Cody said, "Don't lose sight of the value and purpose you bring to the fight each day."

"Learn to deal with the changes ahead. Make the best decision you can for you and your family, and keep working hard. You and your families are without a doubt our most valuable asset. Look out for each other and be a good Wingman. There is still much to do and much to accomplish, and I continue to be impressed with you and the incredible work you do."