LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Staff Sgt. Jessica Lu, 47th Communications Squadron communications focal point supervisor, was chosen by wing leadership to be this week’s “Laughlin XLer” on June 14, 2017. The “XLer” is given to those who consistently make outstanding contributions to their unit, Laughlin and the mission.
Lu oversaw $99,000 worth of equipment and 124 systems used to operate services like the help desk over unclassified and classified networks, paving the way for her squadron to be recognized by Air Education and Training Command as the “Best Defense Reporting Activity”.
“[DRA] plays a major role in managing Air Force assets,” said Lu. “If we don't have the systems up we cannot be in compliance with asset management procedures.”
Lu not only increased her abilities in the IT world through attaining her certifications and tackling college level courses, but also pushed two Airmen to pursue higher education as well.
“Furthering my education was a big part of why I joined the Air Force,” said Lu. “I push other Airmen to use tuition assistance, DANTES, CLEP exams, AF Cool program and anything [they can] to get certified and more marketable in today's work force. It's gratifying for me to help others reach their goals and accomplishments.”
Behind every winner, however, is a team that stands behind their award recipient, to provide guidance and some much needed assistance, and Lu said she would not have succeeded without her team pushing her forward.