JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas – Chief Master Sgt. Ronnie J. Woods became the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center Command Chief during a change of responsibility ceremony Aug. 13 at the Gateway Club.
With 27 years of Air Force service, Woods brings a wealth of operational experience, a deep commitment to servant leadership, and a passion for inspiring Airmen and their families. We asked the Illinois native about his journey, leadership philosophy, and what excites him most about joining the AFIMSC team.
Tell us a little about your career.
My career in the Air Force began with significant challenges. It took me longer than many of my peers to adapt to the rigorous military standards. However, the unwavering support and high expectations set by my supervisors inspired me to make the necessary adjustments to not only meet but exceed those standards, transforming me into a productive and professional Airman. Once I discovered my true calling within the Air Force, I experienced remarkable success and was driven to make a positive impact on the lives of fellow Airmen, just as my supervisors had done for me.
My career has been incredibly diverse and fulfilling. I initially served in security forces before retraining into battle management operations in 2010 as a technical sergeant. Over the course of ten years in this vital field, I progressed to the rank of chief master sergeant and had the distinct honor of being selected as a command chief. I proudly served as the command chief at Kunsan Air Base, Korea; Kadena Air Base, Japan; and the Eighth Air Force at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. Each role has equipped me with invaluable experience and a deep commitment to fostering excellence within the Air Force community.
What do you like most about serving in the Air Force?
What I hold most dear about my service is the privilege to inspire others and nurture a supportive community for our Airmen and their families. This deep-rooted passion fuels my commitment to serve. I am genuinely moved to uplift those around me through my actions, just as the exceptional leaders have touched my life throughout my career. Their guidance has profoundly influenced my journey, and now I strive to share that inspiration by fostering resilience and camaraderie within our community. Together, we can create a space where everyone feels valued and supported.
What excites you most about your new role?
I’m excited to positively impact the mission, Airmen and families at the institutional level. I’m also looking forward to the challenge of learning the intricacies of the unique organization in AFIMSC.
How would you describe your leadership approach?
My mission is to be a servant leader and an inspiring operational leader. Like everyone, I encounter both challenges and triumphs on this leadership journey, but I remain committed to growth and improvement. Ultimately, I aspire for the Airmen I serve alongside to recognize my genuine efforts and unwavering dedication to our shared success.
What do you want the AFIMSC team to know about you?
I want AFIMSC to understand my profound motivation: my family.
As the first member of the Woods family to serve in the military, I've helped forge a proud family tradition that continues to grow. My wife served honorably in the Air Force. My oldest son, Senior Airman Sincere Woods, and youngest sister, Senior Airman Remona Woods, are currently serving.
I have a 19-year-old daughter, Nakeria, who is pursuing her education at South Alabama, and my youngest daughter, Alia, is excitedly preparing to start her sophomore year in high school. My family's commitment to service is a source of inspiration for me every day.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
Many colleagues are surprised to learn that I am an introvert. My extensive use of social media in previous roles has led many to mistakenly perceive me as extroverted. In truth, I thrive on activities that cater to introverts, and I find great fulfillment in them!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have ever received - which profoundly transformed my career - is simple: be yourself.
For too long, I found myself struggling to conform to what I thought the Air Force wanted me to be. One day, a mentor shared a powerful truth with me: “The hardest thing in the world is to be something you are not; the easiest thing is to be yourself.”
Hearing this felt like a revelation. It ignited a spark within me and inspired me to embrace my authentic self in every aspect of my career. As an inner-city kid, this newfound confidence fueled my ambition to pursue excellence. Once I made that shift, my career soared to heights I had only dreamed of, and I’ve never looked back since.
Now, I make it my mission to pass on this invaluable advice to as many Airmen as I can. Your uniqueness is your strength, and embracing it can lead to remarkable achievements. Always remember that being true to yourself is not just the easiest path, it’s the most rewarding one.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I’m excited to start!
To learn more about Woods, read his biography at www.afimsc.af.mil/About-Us/Biographies/Display/Article/4267855/ronnie-j-woods.