WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Tech. Sgt. Derick Fisher, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron pavements and equipment shop section chief, was recently named the Eighth Air Force Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.
This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding leadership, dedication, and exceptional performance over the past year.
Fisher leads a critical team within his squadron that is responsible for a wide array of base maintenance tasks. Their responsibilities include not only maintaining and repairing pavement but also keeping the base clear of snow and debris, which are essential for mission readiness.
“We help keep Whiteman lethal by making sure we can always operate,” Fisher said. “It’s our responsibility to make sure that the B-2 can access our runway 24/7, 365 days a year.”
Fisher said he was humbled and honored to receive the award but also wanted to give credit to the other Airmen and civilians in his shop who were instrumental in helping him earn it.
“Lead with genuine care,” Fisher said. “As an NCO, it’s important to care about your Airmen’s personal stuff and their professional well-being, so you know how to lead them.”
Fisher’s leadership and his team’s impactful efforts underscore how individual and team accomplishments within the mission forge stronger warfighter ethos, ultimately resulting in a more agile, adaptable, and ready Air Force.