How is the workload in your Knowledge Management office?

I remember the changes MSgt Jacob Ballard referenced. I came in as a 702, then became a 3A0, and retired as a 3D0. I loved the actual career field but didn't like having to deal with folks in charge who had no idea of what being KO is supposed to be. Having such folks in charge often resulted in being misutilized and put in various positions outside the career field. This often meant a lot of OJT for jobs that others went to Tech School for. I understand the frustration of dealing with those who don't know what to do with our career field. It always aggravated me when I was put in jobs where my AFSC either took a back burner or was practically non existent. No, I never cross trained out of Knowledge Operations. Now, be aware the career field is going to continue to change. What may not be authorized for you now as a 3D may become mandatory later. You may find yourself doing jobs completely unrelated to your career field, and no, I'm not talking augmentee positions. The 3D and 3A positions do make up a very wide and diverse career field. Learn and experience as much of them as you can. Get to know your AFSC functional managers. When they ask what you are doing for tasks, even if it's a pain to do so, tell them. If you end up getting put into jobs totally unrelated to your AFSC, let your Functional Manager know and handle it. Getting to do jobs outside your AFSC is a way to learn new skills without formal training while still getting credit. Be familiar with the Air Force Instructions relating to your AFSC. When I was in, they were the 37 and 33 series. Are you working on or have you finished your 5-level CDCs? If you haven't finished or are waiting to test them, is someone working with you? Is someone giving you quizzes or practice tests whether orally or written? As an Airman, it's more important for you to learn the job and gain some hands on experience. Ask questions for items you don't understand from your fellow KMs who are NCOs and higher. Take advantage of all training opportunities. That will give you an edge. When the opportunity comes, volunteer for TDYs and Deployments. If none are forthcoming, seek them out. Training managers and Mobility sometimes know of TDYs and deployments you can volunteer for. TDYs and Deployments give you new places to hone some skills and learn some new ones. Enjoy your time in Knowledge Management.

I sometimes feel that the Air Force doesn't know what we are supposed to do and that there is still a blurry line on our responsibilities. I am in a unique organization and I feel I am better utilized (AFSC wise) than when I was in a command staff position. Most of my employment prior to the USAF I was in similar roles and I have always had the motto of "I am in the business of getting things done" which has helped me with my outlook of the assignments I have been in and I feel my leadership has always appreciated it. It is disheartening when it comes to awards beyond the unit and competing at the wing/center/majcom/base levels where we just don't have the volume to compete and most "leaders" don't fully understand what we are doing. Best thing is to stay positive, embrace the challenges, and make the best out of what you have!

Outstanding post Amn Gonzalez, but I think I've heard this before at least two times! The first when the Air Force reclassified 702s into 3As - aka Information Managers, and then again as you mentioned the 3D split, or what I remember the birth of KOM. I ended up on the KOM side for the final years of service, but either way would have been equally rewarding. The one common theme that I experienced, and it sounds like based on your comment you already know, is "Jack of ALL Trades". It's an attribute that if you continue to grow, and eventually master, it will pay off later in life for sure. My best advice besides "Buckle up and Enjoy the Ride" is to seek out a mentor in the 3D realm, and learn what makes them successful, and then make it your own. I'm sure without a doubt, if you stay long enough, the things you know today, will be completely changed tomorrow, and to some existent, that will greatly benefit you in the end! I wish you the Best of Luck!