WASHINGTON, D.C. — A team of subject matter experts from Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center traveled to the Pentagon to provide support at the 2019 National Capital Region Air Force Reserve Assembly, April 11 - 12, 2019.
The HQ ARPC members were a part of a program call Spread the Word, a training initiative, which includes interactive presentations and one-on-one question and answer sessions for Guardsmen, Reservists, Individual Mobilization Augmentees and force support personnel.
The NCR AFR Assembly is held annually to educate reservists, primarily IMAs, about Reserve policies and procedures so they can stay mission ready and maximize their careers. The assembly is also an opportunity for IMAs to engage with senior AFR leaders.
"The fact sharing is priceless,” said Col. Bebe Hollingshead, chief of National Intel Program Resources. “The annual assembly spares Reservists time and heartache."
Over two days, HQ ARPC professionals conducted briefings for approximately 320 members on the joint duty program, travel pay, promotions, developmental board processes, participation and retirements. Facilitators provided attendees with information about programs managed by HQ ARPC and how these programs impact their careers.
“Having the Spread the Word team in attendance not only allowed for members to be educated on personnel issues, program and insight on benefits/entitlements, but it provided supervisors with a clear understanding on their responsibilities to their subordinates,” said Ramon Roldan, HQ ARPC Transition Division chief.
In additional to general questions, attendees were also able to ask the subject matter experts more specific questions during one-on-one sessions, an option that is usually only available via phone.
“We were able to show them that we care about them as valued members of the Air Force,” said Robert Scott, HQ ARPC Reserve Service Programs chief. “With the impersonal nature of the myPers console or the TFSC contact center, STW is a way to directly interact with the members on a personal level.”
STW teams usually cover subjects such as education and post 9/11 GI Bill benefits, enlisted promotions, career development, understanding points summaries and topics relevant to those nearing retirement. However, the briefings can be tailored to the needs of the requesting organization.
Those interested in having a STW team travel to their location are encouraged to submit a completed ARPC Form 89 and include specific topics of interest for their units. Providing these topics will ensure facilitators send the most qualified briefers to meet the needs of the commanders.
Completed Form 89’s may be sent to arpc.presentations1@us.af.mil for processing and offices requiring additional assistance may call 720-847-3022.