Navy SeaBees Instructor earns NETC award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Adawn Kelsey
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Naval Education and Training Command, announced the 2009 Military Instructors of the Year during a ceremony at the Navy Memorial, District of Columbia, May 6.

The Enlisted Instructor of the Year for 2009 was awarded to a Team Sheppard member, Construction Electrician 1st Class Ryan Gerdon, 366th Training Squadron electrical systems course instructor.

According to an article written by the NETC Public Affairs, Gerdon said his instructor duty assignment is the most rewarding privilege of his 13-year career.

"It has allowed me to exercise my passion for my rate, while paying immediate dividends in the form of students who are excited to go out and contribute to the Navy's mission," he said.

Also quoted from his speech, he credited his leadership and team effort for his selection for the award.

"My selection as Instructor of the Year is a reflection of the outstanding mentorship and support I've received from my leadership," he explained. "To be recognized among all the outstanding instructors throughout the Navy is very humbling. I couldn't have achieved my success without help from others. It's a total team effort. If you don't seek help from others, you limit your opportunity to give back to your students and accomplishing your goals.

"It sounds cliché, but being an instructor, it's easy to get caught up with routines. There is a fine line between being comfortable and then too comfortable. Those behind the podium should always work towards learning more about their topic, while making a concerted effort to keep improving their knowledge base, lesson plans, slides and all of the other tools he or she may use. The improved end result will ultimately reflect in the students who are looking to us as the subject matter experts," he said.

Master Chief Petty Officer John Beck, 366th Training Squadron Navy SeaBees assistant officer in charge, said the award is a huge validation for a lot of Gerdon's efforts over this past year.

"This validates everything he's done since he checked onboard Sheppard," Master Chief Beck said. "He has put so much effort in everthing he has done. This award really reflects his overall performance and the respect he has for the students. This really proves that hard work does pay off."