The new feedback form and its importance

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jelani Gibson
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  In a recent message to Airmen, Chief of Staff Gen. Mark A. Welsh III and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody announced plans to begin implementing a more comprehensive Air Force evaluation system for officers and enlisted members.

The first step in the process will be the July 1 implementation of the Airman Comprehensive Assessment Worksheet performance feedback tool, Air Force officials said in a June 9 release.

"The ACA Worksheet, tested in 2012 by 45,000 Airmen, introduces a tool and a process designed to improve communication between supervisors and subordinates while reminding Airmen of the importance of Air Force core values and the role they play in accomplishing the mission," said Will Brown the Air Force Personnel Center Evaluation and Recognition Programs Branch chief.

Chief Master Sgt. Christian Pugh, 366th Training Squadron superintendent, thinks that the feedback gives Airmen specific parameters for expectations and a process that requires Airmen to assess themselves prior to a face-to-face feedback session with their supervisor.

"This new Airman Comprehensive Assessment, it's what we've needed for a long time," Pugh said. "It adds the input of the Airman, an avenue for them to relay and talk to their supervisors in areas they believe they need help in."
 
Pugh emphasizes the professional relationship between the supervisor and subordinate Airman as one that is critical to success.
 
"It provides the supervisor an opportunity to get to better know the Airman they're working with and how to help set them up for success...the supervisor should not only provide the feedback, but provide the avenues for them to develop and grow," Pugh said.

The new form and process illustrate the emphasis the Air Force places on communicating for success. According to Cody, proper feedback is the most important element of a strong evaluation system.

"It is the only way we can cultivate a culture that drives performance. Airmen must know what we expect of them," Cody said. "We owe them direction and guidance so they can reach their fullest potential and capitalize on opportunities. If we fail at feedback, we fail our Airmen."

Debbie Gildea, Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs contributed to this article