Our Deckplate Leader of the Week is Chief Petty Officer Jose Sermini, a machinery technician from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Buffalo!
Sermini is the Engineering Division Chief and the Sector Buffalo Chief of the Mess. When asked what makes a "good" chief, he responded:
“A good chief is a good listener. They listen to comprehend, not necessarily to answer. A good chief is the voice of the enlisted workforce and the officer corps, when they need you to be. A good chief uses their network to help, develop, mentor, and most importantly to take care of our members. A good chief never takes credit, they give it all to their crew. A good chief always speaks truth to power, even when the truth is uncomfortable.”
What advice does he have for junior members?
“Seize every opportunity available to better yourself in your trade/craft knowledge and to develop yourself as a leader. Take charge, don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and step into leadership roles at your unit. Take advantage of our educational programs, they're free, it doesn't get any better than that. Take every opportunity to advance and give it your all, you are the only one in charge of your career. Make the best out of every duty station; it's an adventure every time you transfer.”
