45th MDG civilian earns top AFA award Published Sept. 28, 2009 By Chris Calkins 45th Space Wing Public Affairs PATRICK AIR FORCEBASE, Fla. -- Mr. Gary Parker, a retired Air Force master sergeant and current 45th Medical Group medical manpower analyst, was recently named the Air Force Association's "Civilian Program Specialist of the Year." His supervisor, while proud as she can be, wasn't caught off guard by this outstanding achievement. "I've been told by numerous people that I have the best manpower specialist in Air Force Space Command; now we find out he's the best in the entire Air Force," said Capt. Pamela Smallwood, flight chief, "But we already knew that." Mr. Parker, who left active duty after more than a quarter-century of service to his service and nation, said he credits his background - and mentoring - as key factors in his professional success. "I've always had outstanding leadership in the Medical Service Corps," said Mr. Parker. "When I was assigned to Air Force Space Command, Col. John Sell took me under his wing and taught me the importance of understanding both sides of manpower; programming and execution. Captain Smallwood also said Mr. Parker's expertise in everything manpower has enabled them to look ahead and determine how decisions made now will affect them in the future. "He has the innate ability to take our current requirements and fit them into staffing models that are being implemented in the near future," she said. And not only that, she said, he is a big believer in keeping things simple, even in today's ultra-complicated world. "Gary created a real-time staffing document that incorporates five hard-to-understand documents into one easy to read spreadsheet. This has provided our leadership an invaluable tool that enables them to make more educated decisions" she said. Not one to blow his own horn, Mr. Parker said it two important people who allowed him to reach this pinnacle of success. "I think my family was critical in my accomplishments. No; I know they were," he said with a knowing smile. "They provided the support, encouragement and drive for me to take the risks necessary to make a real difference. My wife, Hope, an active duty lab technician, with her passion and professionalism, was a fantastic role model," he said. When asked what advice he would give to other members of the 45th Space Wing community, his words were simple ... and to the point. "Build your resume one day at a time. Instill passion in your work, be honest and trust your people and your future will write itself," he said. "It's really simple: the active duty and civilian labor force both are looking for same thing -- the best product, a valued commodity and someone dedicated to the mission." Sounds like a recipe for success.