412th TW welcomes new command chief

  • Published
  • By Kenji Thuloweit
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Chief Master Sgt. Christopher S. McCollor has assumed the role as 412th Test Wing command chief following the retirement of Chief Master Sgt. Mark S. Brejcha.

"I am humbled to be part of the Team Edwards legacy and genuinely excited about the future; not so much the machines as the men and women who make them possible," said Chief McCollor. "Day after day, the efforts of every individual; no matter in a test or support role, make a difference to this nation and the world at large. In concept, it's staggering; in execution, miraculous."

"With every new job in my career, I have had the opportunity to learn and grow professionally. Being the 412th Test Wing command chief affords me the opportunity to positively apply these lessons at a level that can really make a difference," said the new command chief.

"Back to Basics" is Chief McCollor's first priority. He said he will work to ensure that the Edwards work force is properly trained and equipped to do whatever it is asked to do. Then to ensure the work is performed in a safe environment.

"Next, I will work to re-invigorate our Airmen with the very basics we were taught in basic training. It's almost too simple: You can't go wrong when you perform your daily routines with integrity, service before self and excellence in everything you do."

"Finally, I will reinforce the concept of supervisors leading by personal example; taking an active, genuine interest in their subordinates' personal and professional development. Don't just write the quarterly award nomination; follow up by practicing interview techniques and personally escorting your nominee to the board. That's a leader!" Chief McCollor said.

The Chief comes to the high desert from Eglin Air Force Base, Florida where he served as the superintendent of the 96th Mission Support Group.

He grew up in Farmingdale, Maine and entered the Air Force in June 1984. He is a career personnelist whose assignments include bases in California, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio and Florida. The Chief has also served overseas in the United Kingdom and has deployed to Kuwait and Diego Garcia.

As the command chief for the 412th TW, he is the principal advisor to Col. Dawn M. Dunlop, 412th Test Wing commander, on matters concerning morale, welfare, discipline, training, fitness and effective utilization of the wing's 3,600 military and civilian personnel. Chief McCollor represents the senior enlisted corps with motivational speaking engagements and professional development forums with the First Term Airman Center, Airman Leadership School as well as Airman and Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development seminars.