A mass inspection occurs every four years, and officers in flights Delta, Echo, and Charlie are ready to rise to the challenge. They have shown dedication, leadership, and vision in preparing their unit for this pivotal moment.
Charlie Mungzliner, Physical Training Officer
Mungzliner’s journey to leadership is marked by resilience and adaptability. Despite joining a year late and missing key programs like the Cadet Leadership Course (CLC), he turned his disadvantages into lessons, which he continues to apply today. As a PT officer, Mungzliner focuses on fostering unity. One such instance is on field day, which he describes as his proudest accomplishment. When asked, he described his leadership mantra as balancing humility with authority. “You can’t be a dictator,” Mungzliner said. “Be on their level, but assert yourself.” He hopes to leave behind a team that prioritizes thoughtful planning and community engagement in all activities.
William Baker, Inspector General
For Baker, leadership is about adaptation and attention to detail. In 2024, Baker stepped into a new role as Inspector General. His goal for the upcoming inspection is to ensure all 105 cadets excel and earn ribbons. Baker explains that effective leadership means working alongside your team. “It’s not about telling people what to do—it’s about showing them you’re in it with them.” With plans to become a naval officer and study aerospace engineering, Baker values the leadership skills he has developed, advising others to rely on their network during stressful times.
Austin Matthews, Group Commander
As group commander, Matthews understands the weight of responsibility. “Being a leader means seeing the bigger picture, assessing situations, and executing plans with empathy,” Matthews said. Early on, Matthews felt the pressure of high expectations but used it as motivation to lead effectively. His vision for the team is progressive: to refine the program while elevating its standards. “I want to leave behind a program that is stronger and better equipped to tackle any challenge,” he said. “Feeling overwhelmed is part of the process—it shapes you into a stronger leader.” Matthews hopes to continue his leadership journey as an Air Force officer.
Rico Gordon, Vice Group Commander
Gordon’s leadership philosophy centers on building personal connections. “You can’t expect everything from your team without understanding where they’re coming from,” he said. Gordon’s challenge involved determining how to best support his team and community. As vice group commander, he aims to uphold high standards while instilling a welcoming and accountable community. Gordon’s proudest moment is winning the Outstanding Flight Commander award at CLC 2024. He plans to attend the Air Force Academy to pursue his dream of becoming a pilot. “Nobody wants to follow someone they don’t trust or connect with,” Gordon said, emphasizing the priority of respect and collaboration.
Together, these four officers demonstrate what it means to lead with integrity, vision, and commitment as they prepare for their ultimate test of excellence.
