Vance Airmen graduate from Sheppard NCO Academy Published March 18, 2014 By Senior Airman Frank Casciotta 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Three Team Vance technical sergeants graduated with 157 other Airmen Feb. 14 from the NCO Academy at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. The graduates were: Tech. Sgts. Gary Eyster, 71st Security Forces Squadron, Danyel Ford, 71st Logistics Readiness Squadron, and Linell McKissick, 71st Communications Squadron. NCOA is the second level of professional military education required for NCOs in the rank of technical sergeant to be eligible for promotion to master sergeant. Airmen who attend the academy expand their leadership and management skills gained through years of experience leading Airmen. "I think the most valuable things I learned were techniques dealing with the different temperaments people can have," said Ford, the 71st LRS NCO in charge of knowledge operations. "Getting through NCOA requires a lot of study time and I'm grateful they had study groups." While the class is a requirement for promotion, the 71st Flying Training Wing command chief reminds Airmen that NCOA is not simply a stepping stone, but an opportunity to develop. "Congratulations Gary, Linell and Danyel on graduating from NCO Academy," said Chief Master Sgt. Mark Aman. "NCOA is not just a box that needs to be checked for your promotion; it's a critical step in your professional development as an Air Force leader. "The skills you learned there will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to lead our Airmen," said Aman.