JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Ensuring that issues affecting Airmen travel through the proper levels of leadership is just one of the key roles Chief Master Sgt. Larry Williams does every day as the 437th Airlift Wing command chief.
"It's essential to be visible and involved with Airmen," said Williams. "They are my top priority and it's my job to ensure the communication chains remain open and flows through the proper levels of leadership, in our case, to Col. Erik Hansen, 437th AW commander."
Along with advising the wing commander, Williams also advises two group and nine squadron commanders on the proper and effective utilization of more than 2,200 Airmen who ensure the 437th AW's combat readiness.
Williams also serves as the commander's representative for numerous committees, councils and boards charged with meeting quality of force as well as quality of life needs.
According to Williams, the most challenging aspect of his job is delegating his time to the most actionable items.
"Fitting everything that needs to be done into my calendar is challenging," said Williams. "However, I dedicate my time on important issues where I'll see results."
Williams credits his past experience in previous Air Force career fields to helping him fit into his current role as the 437th AW chief.
Williams entered the Air Force in April 1989. Upon graduating technical school at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas as an aircraft maintenance specialist, he was assigned to Dover AFB, Del., where he worked in a variety of assignments in his career field. Williams cross-trained to become a Career Enlisted Aviator in 1998.
"All those moments throughout the course of my career serve me now as command chief of an airlift wing, especially when the wing's mission is to fix, load and fly air planes," said Williams.
Williams understands the work-related issues Airmen face at the 437th AW. He understands because, he has walked in their shoes and experienced many of the same problems they face today.
As a leader, Williams lists Airmen as his top priority.
According to Williams, Air Force policies and organizational structure change throughout the years. However, one lasting impression that won't change is how you treat people.
"At the end of the day," said Williams. "My measure of success is how well I've taken care of the Airmen."