LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- For inbound enlisted Airmen coming to Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, from either technical training or from another base, living in the dormitory for most is more than an option—it’s a requirement.
To change the perception of living in the dorms, Staff Sgt. Justin Najarian, 47th Civil Engineer Squadron Airmen Dorm Leader, works day-in and day-out with the residents, the dorm council and base leadership to improve the quality of life for the dorm residents on base
“I want to make the dorms accessible to Airmen coming out of tech school and make sure they have a good experience if this is their first duty location and base,” he said. “I want to make sure they leave with a positive outlook on the Air Force lifestyle.”
Najarian took on the position in an effort to help, in his way, to make Laughlin a great experience for everyone across the board, but especially for those residing in the dorms. Since becoming the dorm leader, he’s helped facilitate TV’s and Wi-Fi in the common areas, an upgraded theater room, new carpeting and drapes, and spearheading the future renovation of neighboring Rick’s Hall.
“I’ve always loved mentoring junior Airmen, helping them out and increasing their quality of life whenever I could, so I felt volunteering for this position was a good opportunity,” he said. “Taking care of Airmen, listening to their needs and making creating solutions in order to make the dorms a better place are what I enjoy the most.”
Another way Najarian connects with the Airmen around him is through his music. Having performed at numerous events targeting junior enlisted around base, he hopes that he can reach his audiences and the Airmen in a more creative fashion.
“I’m a very artistic person,” he said. “It’s helped me be able to speak to the Airmen on a more personal basis. I’ve never been good at one-on-one conversations, so it’s a good avenue to introduce myself, keep conversations and give advice.”
Whether it’s through being the dorm leader, through his music, or as a staff sergeant in the United States Air Force, Najarian hopes that his efforts help making those experiencing the USAF for the first time a positive one.