JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas – Meet Kami Brown, the April #IAMIMSC award winner. Brown is the security forces program manager for the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center’s Detachment 5 at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.
The #IAMIMSC award recognizes people whose actions have promoted connectedness and service before self within their workplace or the center. In addition to staying engaged with the security forces career field across Air Force headquarters, major commands and installations, Brown is a connector who celebrates her teammates and cares deeply about the people and mission of the Air Force District of Washington.
“Kami embodies the Air Force core values and weaves them into the organization. Those around her feel accepted, respected, included, valued and supported,” said Jason Burnside, AFIMSC Detachment 5 deputy director. “She links the Air Force core values into connectedness through her integrity and service before self.”
We asked Brown a few questions about being part of the AFIMSC team and promoting connectedness around the organization.
Primary duty responsibilities: My responsibilities include installation and expeditionary mission support to Air Force headquarters, Air Force Materiel Command, AFIMSC, the Air Force District of Washington and subordinate organizations. I advise commanders and staff functions on all things security, which includes force protection, antiterrorism and physical security.
What do you like most about being a part of the AFIMSC team?
First and foremost, I like that AFIMSC is globally connected. The fact that the majority of personnel within AFIMSC, the center’s primary subordinate units and each of the detachments are always more than willing to assist and share when asked, continues to solidify our team and fosters continued mission success.
Why do you think it’s important for AFIMSC teammates and their families to feel connected to the organization?
It is imperative that everyone feels connected to their organization, teammates and families alike. This aides in a sense of belonging, helps one feel valued and fosters trust. Inevitability, this helps enhance the team concept and build a continued willingness to support each other and opens the lines of communication.
What types of connectedness activities or events do you most enjoy participating in and why?
I enjoy participating in team building events. Getting out of the office on occasion and doing something different helps not only relieve stress but also helps the team communicate and better know one another.
What advice do you have for people who are trying to build a better sense of belonging and kinship with their team?
It takes everyone to form a cohesive, effective team. Sometimes we have to get over our own anxiety and just join in, or ensure that we are all inclusive and encourage everyone to participate. The reality is that we are all different; however, we can all find common ground to become a collective whole and learn to truly appreciate one another.