Airmen symposium focuses on readiness, career and resilience Published Feb. 6, 2024 By Master Sgt. Juliet Louden 910th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Youngstown Air Reserve Station hosted a junior enlisted symposium, Jan. 8-10, 2024. The symposium focused on the Airmen’s readiness, career and resilience. Chief Master Sgt. Jennifer McKendree, the 910th Airlift Wing command chief, organized the event. McKendree expressed the importance for Airmen to have the knowledge of various steps needed to advance their military careers. “Enlisted development is critical to the retention of our Airmen,” said McKendree. “We must invest the time and resources necessary to ensure they’ve been provided information beyond what’s part of their normal duties.” Symposium participants left positive feedback on post-event surveys. Some said it provided beneficial information that they hadn’t yet encountered in their Air Force careers. Keeping Airmen in the military is not only important to the Air Force Reserve, but the 910th Airlift Wing as well, and positive early experiences can help boost retention ratees. “Our Airmen Symposium was targeted for E-4 and below,” said McKendree. It’s important for us as supervisors and leaders to get it right with this group of Airmen; otherwise, they may not consider reenlisting. We have the opportunity to make a real impact in their career and life.”