FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas –
Two instructors with the Medical Education & Training Campus (METC) were selected for Air Education and Training Command (AETC) 2011 Medical Service Awards.
Lt. Col. James Kutner, the Air Force Dental Assistant Program Director for METC, won the Air Force Dental Educator of the Year Award for his outstanding individual performance of duty and achievement.
Tech. Sgt. Monique Hudson, an instructor supervisor for the METC Ophthalmic Technician Program, won the Air Force Ophthalmic Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year Award. This award recognized Hudson's outstanding individual performance of duty and achievement.
Both will now compete against all other major Air Force medical commands for the Air Force level award.
"I am extremely proud of the men and women of all services, both uniformed and civilian, who give METC life," said Rear Adm. Bob Kiser, METC Commandant.
"Lt. Col Kutner and Tech. Sgt. Hudson are prime examples of the excellence and high caliber of staff that allows the Medical Education & Training Campus to train the world's finest medics, corpsmen, and techs, supporting our nation's ability to engage globally."
Among his accomplishments Kutner managed 12 classes, achieving a 98 percent graduation rate that prepared 190 dental assistants for initial duty. He led 13 dental lab non-commissioned officers in instructing eight basic classes with 144 tri-service lab apprentices and 120 advanced lab technicians. Additionally, Kutner boosted the Dental Assistant National Board scores from a 47 percent to a 65 percent pass rate and fostered ancillary staff advancements, resulting in four squadron, one group, and one METC Instructor of the Quarter Awards.
"It's an honor to have been even considered for this award," said Kutner. "I find it very rewarding to educate and welcome our newest Air Force dental service members to the Department of Defense and to the Air Force Medical Service. My hope is that every graduate reaches his or her full potential."
As the ophthalmic technical training supervisor, Hudson successfully coordinated the movement of the ophthalmic technical training course from Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas to Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. Her efforts enabled classes to continue on time with no delays. Additionally, she spent 95 hours administering special individualized assistance to students, averting 19 failures and saving the Air Force $177,000. Hudson also volunteered 14 hours to the Wichita Adult Literacy Council, led a Goodwill clothing drive, and organized an event to benefit child abuse prevention efforts.
"It means a lot that my leadership values my contribution," said Hudson, who said she would like to thank her leadership and staff "for allowing me the opportunity to make a difference and accomplish so much."
"The most rewarding aspect of my job is passing on my knowledge and training to my students," continued Hudson. "It feels wonderful to know that I am molding the next generation of Ophthalmic Technicians."