LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- In a household bustling with 12 children, each with unique backgrounds and stories, one Laughlin flight sergeant found the roots of her leadership and resilience. She learned early on the importance of empathy and communication.
“Growing up in a family of 12 children was definitely an experience,” said Tech. Sgt. Clarissa Scott, 47th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) flight chief. “What made it especially unique was that all 12 of us were adopted, each from different ethnic backgrounds and cultures. This environment naturally taught me the value of diversity, empathy, and communication from an early age. It absolutely shaped my leadership style—encouraging inclusivity, patience, and the ability to understand multiple perspectives. It also sharpened my adaptability, as navigating different personalities, needs, and viewpoints became part of everyday life.”
Her family's commitment to service further influenced her path. With both parents having served over two decades in the military, and an older brother currently concluding his role as a Military Training Instructor at Lackland, the values of dedication and duty were ever-present.
“I have an older brother who is currently serving—he’s wrapping up his assignment as a Military Training Instructor (MTI) at Lackland,” said Scott “We were fortunate to be stationed together, both contributing to shaping the next generation of Airmen—him in Basic Military Training and myself in Technical Training. Military service runs deep in our family; both of our parents served as well. My mother was medically retired after 22 years, and my father retired after 23 years of service. So, I’d definitely say it’s a family affair.”
Despite this familial background, her journey to the Air Force wasn't straightforward. Facing personal challenges during college, a pivotal conversation redirected her trajectory.
“Joining the Air Force was always in the back of my mind, but I’ll admit—it wasn’t my first choice. I had told myself that if things didn’t work out or I started to struggle, the military would be my back-up plan. That turning point came when I was living with my childhood best friend’s family due to some challenges at home. I was attending college, broke, and just trying to make ends meet. One day, her father asked if I had considered the military. I shared my thoughts, and he gave me this look that said, ‘You’re in that place right now.’ That moment hit hard. He took me to a recruiter soon after, and the rest is history. Looking back, joining the military was the best decision I’ve ever made, and I don’t regret a single part of the journey that led me here.”
Her commitment deepened as she took on the role of Military Training Leader (MTL), inspired by her own experiences and the desire to guide others.
“My inspiration to become a MTL came from my own experiences in the training environment. Initially, after basic training, I was leaning toward becoming a MTI. However, as I grew as both an Airman and a person, I was given the opportunity to serve as an instructor at Creek Defender with the 435th Security Forces Squadron at Ramstein AFB, Germany. That assignment was deeply personal—my own pre-deployment training at that very schoolhouse played a critical role in saving my life during deployment and prepared me for when the worst happened. That experience lit a fire in me to be part of that same community. My time as an instructor showed me how powerful it is to help Airmen directly—to be the guide I wish I had when I was in their shoes. Becoming a MTL allowed me to be that instrument of change, setting Airmen up for success and providing the mentorship they deserve. It’s truly been the greatest honor of my career.”
She forged meaningful relationships during her time as an MTL.
“There have been so many memorable experiences during my time as an MTL, but the most rewarding moments are when Airmen I’ve mentored still reach out to me. Whether it’s to share life updates, career accomplishments, or to ask for help with things like award packages or Enlisted Performance Briefs (EPBs), it’s incredibly meaningful,” said Scott. “Knowing that I’ve made a lasting impact—that they trust me, value my opinion, and see me as a mentor—means more to me than I can truly express. That continued connection is the greatest affirmation of why I do what I do.”
Transitioning back to Security Forces after her MTL assignment, she decided on Laughlin AFB, seeking both proximity to family and a supportive environment to reintegrate into her career field.
“I spent the last four years in the training environment, and while I genuinely wished I could continue in that role, the Air Force had different plans for me. When I received my base options through the MTI/MTL Assignment Preference Program (MMAP), I chose Laughlin for a couple of key reasons. First, it’s close to home and my family in San Antonio, which was important to me. Second, I saw it as the ideal place to ease back into my career field, especially since a lot had changed while I was away. More importantly, the lessons I learned and the experiences I had while mentoring and developing Airmen gave me a fresh perspective on leadership and service—one that I was eager to bring back to Security Forces. Laughlin gave me the opportunity to re-assimilate while also applying that growth to better support the mission and my teammates.”
She keeps a focused routine that shows her commitment to both her role and her team.
“A typical day at Laughlin starts early for me—my alarm goes off at 0430. I get up, let my dog out, get ready, and head into work, usually arriving between 0500 and 0510. I begin by conducting changeover with the off-going flight chief, reviewing any incidents from the previous shift and gathering pass-on information. At 0530, I lead Guardmount with my flight. This is where everyone is accounted for, armed up and briefed on their post assignments for the day. I also share any updates from leadership, training materials, or safety topics we need to be aware of.”
The role that brings her the most purpose? Leading from the front.
“I’m most passionate about taking care of my Airmen and helping them grow both personally and professionally. Within the Security Forces team, the role I enjoy most is being a flight sergeant. It gives me the opportunity to mentor, lead from the front and set the tone for the team. I take pride in being someone my Airmen can rely on, whether that’s providing guidance, advocating for their needs, or ensuring they’re set up for success. Watching them develop confidence, tackle challenges, and succeed in their roles is the most rewarding part of what I do.”
She leads by example—never asking more of her team than she’s willing to give.
“I approach being a role model and mentor by leading with authenticity, consistency and accountability. I believe in setting the standard through my actions—not just my words—because younger Airmen are always observing. I make it a priority to be approachable and available, whether they need guidance, support or just someone to listen. I share my own experiences—the successes and the setbacks—to help them see that growth often comes through challenges. Most importantly, I strive to create an environment where they feel empowered to ask questions, take initiative and develop into the leaders they’re capable of becoming. Mentorship, to me, is about investing in their potential and walking alongside them as they build confidence and competence.”
Through every triumph, challenge, and lesson, she continues to pass on what she’s learned to others—especially those who are still finding their way.
“Both my upbringing and career path have instilled life lessons that I actively strive to pass on to others. Growing up in a diverse family taught me empathy, adaptability, and the importance of embracing different perspectives. My Air Force career built on those foundations, reinforcing the value of resilience, accountability, and leading with integrity. I often remind younger Airmen that life won’t always follow the plan—but every detour has purpose. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, try something new or tune out negativity. One mindset I live by is: ‘The most they can say is no—but what if the answer is yes?’ How you respond to adversity defines your character. Whether navigating tough decisions or pushing through setbacks, I lead by example and encourage others to see challenges as opportunities for growth.”
Her journey has also been defined by both heartbreak and courage.
“One of the lowest points in my career was missing my Staff Sergeant test—it was a hard lesson in accountability. But I didn’t let it define me. I came back the next year with a renewed focus, studied relentlessly, and made sure nothing would stand in my way of earning that stripe. That experience taught me the power of resilience and determination.”
But nothing shaped her more than what she faced downrange.
“A defining moment in my journey was making it home from Afghanistan with my entire team after enduring a five-hour complex attack. It was just the 25 of us, and everything we trained for became real—having each other’s backs, never leaving a man behind and doing whatever it took to survive. That experience reshaped how I view leadership, loyalty and the deep responsibility we carry for one another. It made me a stronger, more grounded Airman, and I carry those lessons with me every day.”
Outside of uniform, she finds peace in simplicity—and in the people who matter most.
“I’ll admit—I’m a bit of a workaholic. But when I do take time for myself, I love to read, hang out with my dog and spend time with my family. One of my favorite things to do is travel to watch my sister swim for the University of Alabama. It’s a great way to stay connected with my family and support the people who matter most. Those moments help keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of balance.”