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AFSO 21 wing initiatives save money, increases capability

  • Published
  • By 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  A cross-squadron team of Airmen from the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing have succeeded in another Air Force Smart Operations 21 initiative that will continue to increase combat capability for the wing, and save money which can be diverted into Air Force recapitalization priorities. 

1st Lt. Andrew Welborn and Mr. Stephen Hearon, 379th Expeditionary Communications Squadron, submitted the initiative to revise how some specialized heavy equipment is leased. The squadron uses specialized construction equipment to dig trenches for communications conduits and manholes. 

New units such as the 71st Expeditionary Air Control Squadron rely on this communications infrastructure for radar feeds, telephone, and network service. 

Before the initiative, the heavy equipment was leased on an annual basis. Since the vehicles were infrequently used, the 379 ECS asked if there was a more cost effective way to retain their capability and save money. 

A cross-functional team from Contracting, Vehicle Fleet Management, and the Communications Squadron met to identify alternative leasing methods for the infrequently used, yet necessary heavy equipment. 

Tech. Sgt. Rachel Italiano, 379th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron, researched a blanket purchase agreement which allows the 379th ECS to lease the vehicles on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. These options give the flexibility to pay for the equipment only when it is needed. 

The 379th ECS returned the four infrequently used vehicles and agreed to pursue one of the other options on the existing blanket purchase agreement. Assuming the 379th ECS will lease the equipment for only one month this year, the initiative will save the government about $300,000 per year. 

"Air Force Smart Operations is about eliminating non-value added work and retaining combat capability," said Maj. Joel Rudy, base AFSO 21 project officer. "This is just one more success story for the 379th AEW. The combined savings for the successes of the entire wing are approaching $20 million, which is more than enough money to fund one of the MQ-1 Predator UAV's in the Air Force's FY08 budget request."