Airman wins IT prize

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — The Computing Technology Industry Association recently recognized a 96th Communications Squadron Airman for her mentorship work in the information technology field.

Staff Sgt. Sarah Massengill, a client systems supervisor, said she was recognized as an individual who lifts up and promotes other women in technology leadership.

“I take leadership and mentorship very seriously,” said the 31-year-old who nominated herself for the award.  “I believe promoting females in the IT career field is not only important for adding diversity but also because women add a different perspective to solutions.”

The name of the honor Massengill earned is the “Advancing Women in Technology Mentorship Guide Spotlight Award.”

“I do my best to guide and motivate Airmen and act as a role model to inspire their actions and efforts,” said the Mississippi native.  “For women in IT, I encourage them to voice ideas and solutions every day.”

Massengill stressed having an equal female presence not only creates a diverse workforce and adds a different viewpoint.

Her perspective in communications and as a supervisor is critical.  She is one of only two Airmen trained as local registration authorities here.  This duty makes her responsible for granting users access to Secret network accounts and provides encryption certificates to standard networked accounts.

She is sharing those same perspectives with the Airmen she supervises.  Massengill said under her tutelage, a shy introspective Airman blossomed and even won awards herself.

“She’s becoming more tech-savvy and is now very motivated to learn and succeed,” said Massengill of her Airman.

Massengill said she loves her job and the career field has so much to offer.

“Air Force Comm offers opportunities for gaining IT certifications, degrees and hands-on training to become subject matter experts in what we do,” said Massengill, who joined the Air Force in 2011. “It provides us the skills we need to help the world excel in its technological advancements.”