HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- An enlisted Airman with Detachment 7, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, was recently selected to attend Officer Training School.
Tech. Sgt. Salvador Cardenas, Det. 7 section enlisted leader, will commission as a second lieutenant in the Space Force upon completion of OTS.
Detachment leadership said his sustained, superior performance demonstrates he is prepared to take on the responsibilities of a commissioned officer.
“Master sergeant-select Cardenas epitomizes the whole person concept, balancing a rigorous cyber operations degree with impeccable active-duty performance,” said Senior Master Sgt. Andrea Nehmer, Det. 7 first sergeant. “He doesn't just manage tasks; he actively mentors his peers, develops our junior force and elevates the entire team to a standard of excellence.”
Cardenas said he became interested in pursuing a commission early in his Air Force career.
“Becoming an officer was always something I thought about,” said Cardenas. “I have worked closely with commanders in all my assignments, which allowed me to see how leaders make decisions to accomplish the mission. I learned a lot and it really inspired me to become an officer.”
Cardenas said his 12 years of enlisted experience as an Airman, supervisor and section leader gave him a greater understanding of how leadership decisions affect the people carrying out the mission.
“I’ve learned how to develop Airmen, hold people accountable and show compassion when the situation calls for it,” said Cardenas. “That perspective will help me make decisions that will accomplish the mission and also take care of people and their families.”
He said his background in human resource administration also helped prepare him for leadership roles and made him proficient in programs that directly impact Airmen and their careers.
“Understanding assignments, evaluations, readiness, promotions, awards and other personnel programs will help me ensure my Airmen are set up for success,” said Cardenas. “They can better focus on accomplishing their missions if the administrative aspects of their service are being met.”
Cardenas’ career field will be determined at the conclusion of his accession training. He hopes to be a cyberspace effects operations officer.
“Computers were always my passion, and I have a bachelor’s degree in cyber operations, so I’m hoping to get assigned to that field,” said Cardenas.
Officer Training School is an eight-week program designed to prepare non- and prior-service Airmen for leadership roles as officers. The program focuses on military skills, leadership development and Air Force culture.
“I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead Airmen, and I'm excited to see what the future holds,” said Cardenas.