Sheppard rewards members for light bulb idea

Published Dec. 11, 2008
By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Two members of the 82nd Civil Engineering Squadron were rewarded for an IDEA that will save Sheppard $236,308 in the first year it is implemented and about $1.9 million over the next several years.

Steve James, a power support mechanic, and Tomas Finley, an electric foreman, suggested that Sheppard replace the high pressure sodium parking lot lights with the cost-effective and energy-efficient light emitting diode fixtures.

For their findings, the Innovative Development through Employee Awareness, or IDEA, program awarded Mr. James $5,000 and Mr. Finley $3,544.

Originally, Mr. James and Mr. Finley were searching for ways to cut down on Sheppard's power bill, which is over $1 million monthly. The lights were the easiest way to do that, Mr. James said.

He said LED lights will reduce waste and environmental impact and reduce maintenance costs. The LED lights consume only 28 percent of the power HPS lights use and have a longer lifespan. LED lights also give a "truer light," which provides better clarity and vision.

"The U.S. government spends a lot on energy. This saves the government and tax-payers money," Mr. James said. "The money can be used for other projects and programs."

Mr. James said he encourages everyone to evaluate their work sections to find more efficient means to complete the mission and submit their findings to the IDEA program.

The IDEA program allows individuals to be recognized for ideas that improve and increase Air Force productivity. The submitter can be awarded from $200 to $10,000 for approved ideas.

"The program works," Mr. James said, adding that when he saw other people get recognized for their suggestions, he thought "Why can't I?"

For more information on the IDEA program, visit https://ipds.csd.disa.mil or contact their office at 676-4332.