#IAMIMSC: Master Sgt. James Mullis
Duty title and unit: Rapid Strategic Deployment Services Contract Manager, 763rd Enterprise Sourcing Squadron, Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina
Primary duty responsibilities: On a daily basis, I support the 43rd Air Mobility Operations Group and all other Air Force units at Pope Army Airfield and Fort Bragg, N.C.
What’s the best part of your job?
Having the ability to solve new problems for the unit and find better, faster ways to deliver services and supplies to the warfighter.
Why are you and your job important to the Air Force and AFMC?
It is important to the 43rd AMOG and other Air Force units to have access to an Air Force contracting office in order for their requirements to be a priority and delivered in a timely manner.
What’s a recent project that gave you a great sense of accomplishment?
This year I was able to reach out and help on the COVID-19 Taskforce and the Department of Defense’s Software Factory, Platform One. My task, in both of these capacities, was to quickly find solutions to acquisition problems and get things on contract at the speed of innovation.
Any claims to fame?
While stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico, years ago, I spent 13 days on the set of the movie Transformers as an extra. If you look close enough you may be able to find me.
Do you follow any mantra?
I spend almost all of my free time coaching baseball in the community. My favorite advice for them, that I also try to follow, is “the way you do anything is the way you do everything.” Professionally, I say shoot for the moon! If you try and fail, at least you tried!
Which AFIMSC value do you identify with the most and why?
Innovation. My goal in every interaction is to start at yes and work back from there. If you spend the time to know and understand all of the rules, it gives you great flexibility to work within them. In baseball we say, “don’t coach the weird out of them.” The process won’t always look the same, but you’ve hit the target if you make it to a successful resolution.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
The 763rd ESS is the most empowering organization I’ve had the privilege of being a part of. The unit has allowed me to work hard and given me the support to chase other opportunities to grow.