HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Base officials recently announced that three enlisted Airmen here have been selected to attend Officer Training School later this year.
Master Sgt. Christopher Cernigliaro, Master Sgt. Kyrsys Sierra Arenas, and Tech. Sgt. Michael Kearns will commission as second lieutenants upon successfully completing OTS.
“These three outstanding Airmen exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and leadership potential the Air Force seeks in its officer corps,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jason Vollmer, installation command chief. “Their selection is a testament to their hard work and commitment to the Air Force mission.”
For Cernigliaro, the senior enlisted leader at Kessel Run, the journey to OTS has been years in the making.
“I didn’t take the traditional route. I started college, then enlisted in the Air Force,” he said. “Throughout my time in the Air Force, I’ve worked hard to develop as a leader, complete my degree and prepare myself for this opportunity.”
Cernigliaro will become a communications officer.
Sierra Arenas, a flight chief in the 66th Medical Squadron, looks forward to using her experience to be a stronger leader as a second lieutenant.
“I’ve gained firsthand experience of the challenges and responsibilities our Airmen face every day,” she said. “That perspective is invaluable as I transition to becoming an officer.”
After completing OTS, Sierra Arenas will become an acquisitions officer.
Kearns highlighted the importance of perseverance throughout the process.
“This is my second time applying,” he said. “The first time, I wasn’t selected, but I learned from that experience, sought mentorship, and refined my application. If you don’t make it the first time, keep trying.”
Kearns, who is an Airman Leadership School instructor, will also become an acquisitions officer.
In an email to members of the workforce, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center Commander, Lt. Gen. Donna Shipton, congratulated the soon-to-be second lieutenants.
“This is a commendable accomplishment and a significant opportunity for our center teammates to train alongside other highly motivated Airmen to become the Air Force’s next cadre of new lieutenants,” she wrote.
Officer Training School is an eight-week program designed to prepare non- and prior-service Airmen, including currently serving enlisted Airmen, for leadership roles as officers. The program focuses on military skills, leadership development, and Air Force culture.