#AFDefender: Senior Master Sgt. Jasen Rodriguez

  • Published
  • AFIMSC Public Affairs

(Editor's Note: National Police Week is May 9 -15. The week is set aside each year to honor all law enforcement officers – military and civilian – who have given their lives for our nation and their communities. In addition to honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, we wanted to use this month to recognize the work of security forces members within the Air Force Security Forces Center, Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center headquarters and our detachments. Like Defenders who have gone before, they are paving the way for the next generation because of the work they are doing for installations to include funding, training and equipment.)

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- Meet Senior Master Sgt. Jasen Rodriguez, major command functional manager for the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center’s Expeditionary Support Directorate, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas.

We asked him to tell us a little bit about himself and how he supports the Air Force Defenders mission.

What are your main responsibilities?
I coordinate, schedule, deconflict and source mission readiness training for the security forces career field.

What is the best thing about your job?
Being able to deliver innovative solutions across the enterprise.

As a child, what job did you want to have when you grew up?
A garbage man.  I wanted to ride on the outside of a truck and throw trash cans around.

What made you pursue law enforcement as a career?
Watching the show “Cops” as a kid.

What is your favorite part about being an Air Force security forces member?
Hearing the Law Enforcement Desk call your radio and say, “Prepare for dispatch.”

Why is your job important to the Air Force mission?
Our Defenders need responsive and knowledgeable “real people” to get them the training they need, when they need it; and to help them work through the maze that sometimes is the road between point A and point B. That’s where my team operates. 

What advice do you have for someone new to the SF career field? 
No one came into the Air Force as a technical sergeant, commander, etc. You’re going to have to start from the ground up just like everyone else. Make sure you are prepared when your opportunity comes to show your potential for bigger and better things. Nothing will speak more about your professional commitment than complaining about where you are, but not being ready for a new challenge.

What or who motivates and inspires you the most?
My dad. He taught me the meaning of perseverance. That mindset has helped push me through some hard days.