Master Sgt. Chi L. Swanson was recently awarded the Air Force Sergeant's Association, Exemplary Service Award, for her outstanding performance as both a member of the organization and her duties as a career assistance advisor at Hill AFB. Swanson specializes in providing career advisement and guidance for enlisted members in areas such as retraining, special duties, commissioning and Palace Chase programs, to name a few. Although she was originally trained as a medic, the master sergeant enjoys her current position as it allows her to interact and mentor first term Airmen while assisting them in making key career decisions.

"I am a people person," she said. "I really like working with members and giving them the information they need in order to help them make informed decisions about their career."

When asked what she attributed to this award as having the most profound effect on her work ethic and mindset, without hesitation she replied, "My mentors. I have been blessed to have great mentors in my career. We all should have them, and if you don't, you need to find one." Swanson is also grateful to AFSA Chapter 163 and its leadership for offering her the many opportunities to showcase her knowledge, skills and abilities that have contributed to this achievement.

Among the many accomplishments noted in her nomination packet was an increase of Community College of the Air Force degrees by 11 percent at Hill AFB, during the Year of the Community College of the Air Force. Swanson also volunteered in several efforts not related to her active duty assignments, including professional organizations, veterans efforts, POW/MIA events and religious education.