Building Connections

  • Published
  • By Aiman 1st Class Anthony Clingerman
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The 48th Fighter Wing hosted a networking seminar for Liberty Wing Airmen geared towards introducing the importance of establishing professional connections, Dec. 5 here.

The seminar aimed to prepare Liberty Airmen for life after the military by introducing the concept of networking and showcasing the benefits of having connections.

Orated by David Hansen, an international networking service expert, the seminar's focus was to help remove obstacles service members may face overseas.

"I think learning to network is necessary these days," said Hansen. "The better you are at making connections, the more opportunities will be available to you."

Networking is an important tool for service members who are separating as well as dependents seeking employment after a Permanent Change of Station, separation from the military or retirement.

"It's harder to network with businesses in the United States because you aren't physically there," said Capt. Adrian Herrera, 492nd Fighter Squadron pilot and the event's organizer. "Any network opportunities you establish can help you, even in the United Kingdom."

While the Seminar was primarily aimed at dependents and Airmen in the twilight of their career, the information is also relevant to Airmen beginning their professional journey. Individuals often don't begin building a support network until it is necessary, which can often prove to be too late.

"This was a major motivator for coordinating this event," said Herrera.

By establishing connections before reaching a destination, the feeling of uncertainty military families could potentially face may be abated.

"When I walked out with my [retirement form] it was the same experience as everyone who has separated have felt," said Capt. Herrera. "I had that same, 'what do I do next?,' feeling."

Staff Sergeant Fabian Ferretti, the NCOIC of the Commander's Support Staff, had attended the meeting and would recommend it for anyone who wants more information on networking.

"I think the Seminar is great for other people in the same position as me." Ferretti said, "You may not know the end point, but you may find middle points that will direct you there."

Capt. Herrera hopes to bring more experts to RAF Lakenheath to speak in the future.