Fraser reveals initial priorities

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. - U.S. Air Force Gen. William M. Fraser III conducted his first commander’s call, Oct. 18, as the new leader of the U.S. Transportation Command. During his one-hour talk in a packed base theater, Fraser shared his priorities for the organization.

Fraser set the tone for his style of leadership and promised fidelity through additional written direction at a later date.

His top priorities include:
     - focus on the warfighter and win today's fight,
     - build partnerships,
     - improve our effectiveness and find efficiencies, and
     - prepare to meet the demands of the future.

He summed up his priorities in a one-word charge: “Lead!”

Fraser stressed the virtues of an all-volunteer force and addressed the assumption that all USTRANSCOM staff work with the intent of continuously improving support for the warfighter.

“It’s about the mission,” Fraser said.  “The mission is job number one, priority number one. Supporting those on the front line is a team effort, and they can’t get [their job] done without us getting our job done every day.”

Fraser stressed the importance of partnership — both among co-workers and with commercial and other organizations — to success. He encouraged his staff to get to know and look out for one another. He promoted listening to various opinions and then working together once decisions are made.

Fraser noted that USTRANSCOM “led the way” on many initiatives from which he benefitted during his time in the field.

He sees this transition as an opportunity to ask questions, especially about processes that have been on “auto-pilot rather than pulled from a collaborative environment.”

Fraser challenged everyone to make decisions and avoid keeping secrets. He encouraged staff to be “solution-oriented”. He wants to hear all team members’ ideas on ways to be both more efficient and effective.

Fraser acknowledged staff expertise. “I’m working for you,” he said.   He noted that he has regular hours dedicated to what he calls “JOLA, or just out looking about” (stopping by unannounced with the pure intent of learning). He expressed the need to understand what individuals do so that he can better tell their stories and support the TRANSCOM mission.

-USTRANSCOM-