EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, ALASKA -- Master Sgt. Stephanie Beil, the 354th Force Support Squadron operations flight superintendent, was named the Pacific Air Forces’ Force Support Squadron Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

“Winning this award is a great honor; I didn’t accomplish this achievement alone -- I had an amazing team that helped to ensure the success of the Eielson, PACAF and Air Force missions,” said Beil. “I manage Readiness, Plans and Programs, Mortuary, Honor Guard, as well 354th FSS contingency support.”

Although this is an individual award, Beil said she would not have earned the recognition without the help of the Airmen in her section.

“My team and I have been working for two years revamping and creating new plans for the growing mission here at Eielson, PACAF and deployed locations,” said Beil. “This means the work we are doing will continue to impact in a positive way and we can continue to build on it in new innovative ways.”

Despite the signs of recognition from throughout her career, Beil explained she doesn’t believe in working solely for awards. Instead she believes in exceling in her work and letting that speak for itself.

Being responsible for things from deployment training and readiness to mortuary affairs provided Beil a sense of satisfaction in knowing the Airmen she prepares to send out the door are fully mission ready.

“An individual should never just complete a job for the award. They shouldn’t chase awards. They should let their work and accomplishments get them there,” said Beil. “Focus on the mission and the impact it has on the Air Force and your team. Do your respective job, be a well-rounded Airman, mentor and empower others, and groom them to be just as proficient as you are.”

Beil’s family serves as her source of motivation and drive to continue pushing herself to grow.

“My husband, Master Sgt. Thomas Beil serves in the same career field as I do, and he challenges me every day to be the best that I can be, motivating me to push the limits of my abilities and face opportunities that I may be afraid to venture into,” she said. “My son Tiberius is my greatest fan and I’m always mindful that he is looking at me and my actions. If I quit and don’t give it my all, what example am I setting for him to emulate?”

Beil now moves on to compete at the Air Force level for 2020 FSS SNCO of the Year.