97th FTS conducts first-ever senior enlisted leader change of responsibility

  • Published
  • By Jet Fabara
  • 340th Flying Training Group Public Affairs

The 97th Flying Training Squadron achieved a significant milestone by conducting its first senior enlisted leader change of responsibility at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, on Oct. 24, 2024.

Master Sgt. Sharon Collado became the squadron’s first SEL to officially assume responsibility during a ceremony officiated by Col. Bradley Brumbaugh, 97th FTS former commander. The ceremony followed the guidance and expectations outlined by the Air Force Pamphlet 36-2692 on March 7, 2024.

“The significance this ceremony for me was the opportunity to set the standard and the path in recognizing our future SELs within the 340th FTG,” said Collado. “I believe this is the most appropriate way to highlight the position and to hear from the unit commander themselves of the importance the roles and responsibility their SEL are charged with.”

For Chief Master Sgt. Warisar Villarreal, 340th FTG SEL, the ceremony had a significant meaning since it was also the Group’s first SEL change of responsibility.

“This position has an enormous impact on preserving heritage, values, standards, traditions, and promotes good order and discipline. SELs are responsible for taking care of Airmen; making sure we are ready and ensuring we are meeting the commander’s intent to the overall mission,” Villarreal said. “This ceremony reminds us of the responsibility given to our senior enlisted leaders and that they are charged with developing and preparing our Airmen to meet the challenges we will face today and in the near future.”

Prior to this assignment, Collado was the 622nd Training Squadron first sergeant. Her current role as the 97th FTS SEL will now involve serving as the senior enlisted advisor to the squadron commander.