JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas --
It’s Mission Monday! Meet Richard Mathews, deputy director of the Air Force Civil Engineer Center Facility Engineering Directorate.
He supports the Department of the Air Force military construction mission and is responsible for worldwide design and construction execution of $28 billion military construction and facility sustainment, restoration and modernization portfolios for the Air and Space forces. The directorate manages infrastructure programs that support several weapon systems beddowns to include the next generation B-21 Raider bomber.
“When I travel to installations and see the new construction projects being completed and the impact these projects have on enabling the Air Force and Space Force missions, that motivates me to serve and keep serving,” Mathews said.
We asked the Aydlett, North Carolina, native who enjoys running, hiking and playing his guitars, to tell us more about himself and the work he does at AFIMSC.
What do you love about your job?
I love the teamwork involved in solving and overcoming complex infrastructure problems and challenges, ultimately leading to the successful construction of critical infrastructure at our installations.
When it comes to your job, what keeps you motivated?
Seeing actual infrastructure projects being completed typically after a long journey with a dedicated team performing hard work and sacrifice makes me proud and keeps me motivated.
Why are you and your team important to the Air Force and Space Force enterprise and your customers?
Our installations need capable and high-performing infrastructure, such as quality, resilient facilities and airfields. The Air Force and Space force can’t execute their missions without this infrastructure.
Describe a project or event you and your team worked on recently that gave you a great sense of accomplishment:
Recently, our team worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Air Force headquarters and congressional leaders to avoid a work stoppage on a critical project at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, by providing a resourcing solution that crosses fiscal years to enable work on the project to continue ahead of schedule.
How does what you do support AFIMSC’s strategic priorities?
I work with a team that manages and executes a $28 billion infrastructure program that supports several weapons systems beddowns, such as the B-21 next generation bomber and the Spaceport of the Future to increase lethality and readiness. Additionally, we execute many quality-of-life focused infrastructure efforts to include new dormitory construction projects and housing projects that deliver safe and modern facilities for our Airmen, Guardians and their families.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
Infrastructure on our installations is typically taken for granted until something goes wrong, such as the power goes out or the water faucet doesn’t provide water. Although it is a challenge in a resource constrained environment, I am part of the dedicated team that works hard to keep this infrastructure operational, often behind the scenes, so it never becomes a problem.