SOUTHWEST ASIA -- I am Staff Sgt. Steven Stein, a 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron electrical systems craftsman, deployed from the 56th Civil Engineer Squadron at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
My job as an electrical systems craftsman is to install, maintain and repair airfield lighting systems, and high and low voltage electrical distribution systems.
The biggest difference between my mission at home station and deployed is that here we sometimes have to deal with unexpected changes. Our shop is also a lot smaller and we do not have the same resources as we do at home station which keeps us busy and always thinking of ways to get things done.
The biggest challenge I face is in working with so many different people with different experience levels and different work methods. I always try to keep an open mind in those situations. Trying new things and new approaches has helped me see more effective and efficient ways to get the job done. It’s helped me grow as a technician, overall.
The best part of the mission for me here is seeing that people are grateful and appreciative of what we do.
My professional goals are to serve 20 or more years of honorable service to my nation. I want to be viewed by my peers as one who not only got the job done, but who inspires others to better themselves. My personal goals are to earn a degree in political science and another in environmental science.
My hobbies are going off-roading, playing the guitar, taking road trips and hiking.
I joined the Air Force because it offered great opportunities for me both personally and professionally. It has allowed me to pursue my education goals while learning and practicing a trade, and traveling the world.