Shaw implements NSPS Published Dec. 27, 2006 By Kimberly Champagne 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Shaw will implement the National Security Personnel System, a revised pay-for-performance system for civilian personnel, starting Jan. 21.NSPS is the most radical change in general schedule pay for government employees since its inception in 1949, said Maj. Jimmie Sullivan, 20th Mission Support Squadron commander. The program is a more flexible and responsive civilian personnel system for its non-bargaining unit employees, said NSPS officials. The system rewards high-performing employees, links performance objectives to organizational goals and increases individual accountability. "Out of 532 appropriated-fund civilian employees here, approximately 85 are converting to the new system in January," said Pat Womack, 20th MSS civilian personnel officer. "Ultimately, all DoD employees will convert to the new system, but that timeline is to be determined."The civilian personnel flight conducted several reviews of the civilian positions loaded in its database and the classification guidance. Based on the employee's existing duties, determinations were made as to which positions would convert in January, Mrs. Womack said. "Notifications have been sent to affected employees and their supervisors," she said. Mandatory training will be required to assist employees prior to converting to NSPS. Training started in August and will continue for employees and their supervisors throughout 2007. Approximately 200 people have completed the required training courses so far.A week of training sessions has been scheduled for those who converting in January, Mrs. Womack said. "How to Write SMART Objectives" helps supervisors accomplish specific actions required for implementation."Other training classes are also projected in the near future to include pay pool training for managers," Mrs. Womack said. The most significant issues to be worked locally are pay pool training and getting all players proficient and informed on the processes, she said."I am excited about the flexibility of NSPS," said Chris Aamold, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron deputy commander."As opposed to the rigid job descriptions under the old system, the supervisor and the employee can define the focus locally and align it with unit goals. When the results exceed expectations, people can be appropriately rewarded," Mr. Aamold said. For more information, contact the civilian personnel office at 895-2655 or visit www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/.