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Resiliency training equips Airmen for hurdles

MRT Training

By Laurie Wilson/Aug. 18, 2017

The Air Force Academy trained Airmen from the Academy and Peterson Air Force Base for roles as Master Resilient Trainers during a five-day training program in Polaris Hall, Aug. 14-18, 2017.

Community Support Program Manager Scott Andrews said the program is designed to help Airmen balance their duties with any challenges of life-problems.

“There are times in Airmen’s lives when the constant pressure to balance personal, team and career demands seems like a never-ending fast-paced treadmill,” he said. “It can be easy to become overwhelmed.”

In total, 45 airmen learned what’s required to help them and others deal with the occasional difficulties faced in keeping pace with a military lifestyle.

“Taking care of the Total Force Airmen and their families on this installation is one of our highest priorities,” said Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Buckman, the 10th Air Base Wing command chief. “The challenges and stressors they face are unlike those we’ve ever seen.”

The MTR program is part of a drive by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein to reduce violence, depression and suicide. It’s evolved into an Academy-wide endeavor.

Andrews said the goal of the training is to develop a stronger Air Force, and increase dignity, honor, respect and care among Airmen. Master Resilient Trainers are specially trained in evidence-based positive psychology approaches that foster a culture of resilience. The MRT’s will become part of the Academy’s Helping Agency Roundtable teams.

Andrews said senior Academy officials are is working to integrate the MRTs into a variety of activities to achieve greater work-life balance, promote healthy relationships, and increase effective and timely coping skills.

“Resiliency Training is all about teaching and enabling Airmen to help other Airmen,” Buckman said.