Each POC cadet is given a job that fulfills a needed function in the Wing, such as planning training events, supplying the training events, figuring out logistics, monitoring safety of all events, among many others. When I entered the POC, I wanted to apply for POC jobs that I would do a good job at based on my existing skills, and then different jobs that put me outside of my comfort zone, allowing me to gain experience in roles I had very little experience in. In my years in the POC, I've had jobs that fulfilled both of these criteria.
As Squadon Commander, I trained my group of Freshmen drill. Training multiple people at once was outside of my comfort zone, which is why I wanted the job.For jobs I had existing strengths in, I served as Inspector General, which monitored training and identified the strengths and weaknesses of the trainers and paid attention to standardization; and a command position, which oversaw Wing communication (website, PowerPoint slideshows, etc). I’m confident in my attention to detail and I'm a self-proclaimed computer expert (my cavemen friends and family might also support this statement), and these jobs went well because of my strengths.
Since the purpose of the Professional Officer Course is to practice being Air Force officers, I wanted to have some Cadet Wing positions that were way outside my comfort zone and I had very little experience in. For these jobs, I was Safety Officer, which forced me to look at training in a completely different way; and a Squadron Commander, which made me responsible for training 1/4th of the freshman cadets. While I'm confident at training people 1 on 1, trying to teach a group of cadets how to march is something I've never done before and it was quite nerve-racking at first.
But as the weeks went on, it became easier and easier and my confidence and competency grew. I might still get nervous when I have to teach cadets on a larger scale, but my experience as a Squadron Commander made it easier. The way you become more comfortable with public speaking is to do it enough until it no longer makes you so nervous, you start sweating excessively. This is the same principle.
I would encourage all cadets to choose at least one POC job that is outside their comfort zone. It is better for you to be uncomfortable at your job here in ROTC and gain experience so you can grow as a leader and be better at your job when you enter Active Duty.
Cadet Major Rob Heckenkamp
