A cut above in maintenance

  • Published
  • By Capt. Denise Hauser
  • 940th Air Refueling Wing

Col. Joseph Orcutt assumed command of the 940th Maintenance Group at a ceremony here July 14. Orcutt comes from Hill Air Force Base where he was the reserve assistant to the vice commander for the Ogden Air Logistics Complex.

“A maintenance-compliant organization is what I plan to be about and that will filter down to the youngest Airmen in my organization,” said Orcutt.

Orcutt is a distinguished graduate of Aircraft Maintenance Officer School and has a wealth of experience throughout the maintenance enterprise. His depth from wing level experience coupled with his broad experience in the Ogden Depot make him the perfect choice to lead the 940th Maintenance Group as it continues to run toward unit and mission standup, said Col. Stephanie Williams, 940th ARW commander.

“Change is part of military life, regardless of what component you serve in,” said Williams. “It is why we are here today, to welcome change, to welcome a new leader. It keeps up relevant, sharp and helps us grow both personally and professionally.”

Williams said group members should take pride in roles they play in a wing that is deeply rooted in history and heritage.

“The maintenance group faced many challenges these last few years, but also had many accomplishments which attributes to the strength and persistence of this of the group and reflect the proud heritage of this unit,” said Williams. “I now have the dream team under my command, and I appreciate all who continue to step up to lead the Airmen of this wing.”

As a civilian, Orcutt is an aviation duty manager at Oakland International Airport.

“It is not uncommon for our Airmen to translate civilian experience into military combat capability. I am grateful for the knowledge and experience you bring to the table here at the 940th.”

Orcutt said a recent staff assistance visit has given him a great road map of things he needs to accomplish as he steps into this position. He said he couldn’t be more blessed to come into a leadership position with a vision laid out in front of him of what he needs to accomplish.

“It took 22 years, eight months and five days, but I finally got a group,” said Orcutt. “Talk about persistence. I am excited about becoming a part of this organization and amazed at the group that I now get to lead.”