SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The Weasel of the Week series asks Team Shaw to share their experiences, Air Force spirit and personalities. We sat down with Airman 1st Class Mathew Dreher, 20th Operations Support Squadron airfield management operations coordinator apprentice, to get to know him and his job. Dreher manages airfield operations to ensure safe operations and effective airfield environment. He plans on completing his bachelor’s degree and becoming a valuable asset within his AFSC.
Where are you from?
I’m from Yelm, WA
Why did you decide to join the Air Force?
I joined the Air Force to serve and protect our country.
How long have you been at Shaw?
I have been at Shaw for 6 months.
What is your favorite part of South Carolina?
So far I have really enjoyed the dirt race track here in Sumter.
What is your favorite part of your hometown?
My favorite part about my hometown is enjoying the outdoors and being able to shoot firearms whenever I want because my family owns five acres of land.
How would you describe a normal day for you?
A normal day for me is pretty routine, wake up, cook breakfast, go to work, go to the gym, spend time with my wife, go to bed and repeat.
What is one word that describes how you lead?
Focused.
What is one Air Force resource you found that is incredibly beneficial?
So far I have only taken advantage of the healthcare. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my family and I are fully covered.
What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?
I wish people knew we work to create safe flying operations and environment for all flightline personnel. I just hope what we do truly makes a difference for the pilots and airfield as a whole.
What is your least favorite task and how do you make sure you get it done?
My least favorite task is reading regulations. They are dry, but necessary for my training. I keep my head to the page and don’t stop.
What is your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job is getting to see the pilots fly every day. I love aviation so seeing them has not gotten old.
What would you like to say to the people back home?
I’d like to say thank you for inspiring me to become the man I am today. People say it takes a village to raise a child and I felt like that child.