Hanscom's new hires now earn Air Force civilian pin

  • Published
  • By Kevin Gilmartin
  • 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Hanscom's newest civilians now learn about Air Force heritage, core values, customs and courtesies and the latest career information during their first two days of work, while earning their Air Force Civilian Pin in the process.

The pin, which is about the size of a nickel, pewter in color, and dominated by the Air Force symbol, is now presented during Hanscom's two-day New Employee Orientation that the newest civilian hires take on their first duty days. Organizers of the two-day orientation have incorporated Air Force New Employee Orientation training into the curriculum. The seven-modules, previously completed by new Hanscom employees on line, are required for all new Air Force employees. Completion of the modules entitles the member to wear the Air Force Civilian Pin.

"The Air Force Civilian Pin serves as a symbol of recognition of the importance of civilian development and the contributions civilians make to the Air Force," said Sheila Brennan, Electronic Systems Center's director of personnel. "It serves as a reminder to all our new civilians, whether they are brand new to our service or have served in the Air Force or as a contractor, that they are now a member of the total force team."

The training provides insight into the Air Force culture and mission through seven online modules:
-- Air Force Heritage
-- Air Force Core Competencies
-- Air Force Customs and Courtesies
-- Force Development
-- Health, Safety and Security
-- Personnel Administration
-- Air Force Core Values

Training is conducted by subject matter experts, with guest instructors like the ESC command chief or Air Base Wing commander teaching the customs and courtesies and core values modules.

"This training provides our new civilians the foundation they need to become successful members of our Air Force team," said Don Changeau of ESC's Directorate of Personnel, who facilitates the two-day orientation course. "Having an expert there to answer questions has been very helpful, and the new hires are likely more engaged in the subject than they would be completing this on line."

"Unlike military members, civilians enter the Air Force at various grades and skill levels and have a wide range of experiences," Ms. Brennan said. "We developed this orientation course, and included the seven-module training, to ensure all of our civilians start off with the same education, training and experience so they can successfully develop in the Air Force."

"Although the seven modules have been part of Hanscom's New Employee Orientation since its inception in February, presentation of the civilian pin was only recently incorporated into the agenda," Mr. Changeau said. Plans call for an ESC senior leader to present the pin during each course.

"Those new employees who completed the training and have yet to receive a pin can call Don Changeau at extension 3-0767, and we'll include them in the next pin presentation ceremony," said Maureen Remeika, a workforce development analyst in ESC's Directorate of Personnel.