Taking the 'LEAD': 3 former enlisted Airmen are junior cadets at Academy

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Daniel Butterfield
  • 302nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  Three formerly enlisted airmen who took advantage of the Leaders Encouraging Airman Development program are now cadets at the Air Force Academy.  

Cadets 2nd Class Chris Bissing, Dustin Johannsen and Krista Kelly, were selected through the program in 2012. All three began their freshman year in 2013.

Johannsen was an instruments and flight control systems journeyman. 

"To be allowed this opportunity to serve my country while receiving an education will help me be a better servant-leader in the future," he said.

Bissing was an electrical power production specialist. 

"It's important to work as hard as you can when you're here so you don't close any doors," he said. "Many people's goals change when they get here. You have to be open-minded. The reasons you come to the Academy are not always the same as the reasons you stay."

Kelly was an aeromedical and evacuation technician.

"I would tell anyone (applying to the Academy) to make sure it is something they are fully committed to," she said. "If they fully commit themselves to being successful here and work hard, they can overcome the challenges and learn more than they could anywhere else." 

Kelly plans to continue her studies after graduation and become a medical doctor.

"The experience (at the Academy) has been difficult but amazingly rewarding," she said. "I never thought I would have the opportunity to grow with such an incredible group of people and have the chance to really practice leadership and positive change. The place is challenging, yes, but it has only made me realize what I'm capable of."

Kelly said all eligible Airmen should pursue admission to the Academy through the LEAD Program.

"Never shut a door," she said. "You will be doing nothing but setting yourself up for success in your personal and professional life. Always try for the opportunity to grow as a person and challenge yourself, I promise you will be surprised at what you can do."

Before arriving at the Academy, all three cadets were assigned to the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.

Visit  www.academyadmissions.com/admissions/advice-to-applicants/enlisted-airmen/for more information.