TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- A culture change has begun in the 552nd Air Control Wing.
Col. Keven Coyle, 552nd ACW commander, addressed the changes to the Airmen of the 552 ACW/OG during a Nov. 9 all call at the Tinker auditorium.
The commander’s message spoke to the mission, safety, trust, respect and empowerment for Airmen in the Wing.
“As your wing commander, I want you to know that I hear you,” said Coyle. “I intend to lead this organization through a culture change, starting with listening to you, understanding what you need and determining how we can work together to create the change we need.”
Coyle said the change starts immediately, announcing that the wing’s former vice-commander, Col. Wayne Frost has assumed duties as the commander of the 552nd Operations Group, effective immediately.
“We are going to look at the processes we have in place in order to get to high performing, inclusive teams on a foundation of trust and mutual respect,” Coyle said. “We must empower our Airmen and encourage problem solving.”
He encouraged Airmen to use the chain of command when issues occur because leaders rely on feedback to continue the process of learning.
“I want to close with you knowing I have your back,” Coyle said. “I trust you, I respect you and I value your contributions and sacrifices for the mission. If there is anything you need to discuss, my door is open. Thank you for being part of the 552nd and America’s Wing.”