Our Deckplate Leader of the week is Chief Petty Officer Charly Tautfest, the Seventh District assistant public affairs officer!
Tautfest is a true leader within the public affairs division and in her local Chief’s mess. She is a chef who “walks the deck” making human-to-human relationships throughout the offices of the Brickell Plaza Federal Building, in downtown Miami.
This past year she oversaw seven public affairs specialists across three regional offices strategically communicating Coast Guard missions, raising brand awareness, and maintaining important relationships. In the past year, she reviewed 300 press releases, 1,600 social media posts, three major drug offload press events, and coordinated countless daily media inquiries inside a very demanding bi-lingual multi-media market.
Tautfest has gone above and beyond organizing volunteer opportunities, hosting morale events, and coordinating weekly teleconference meetings to keep her team connected during a challenging time, when staying connected is difficult.
When asked what advice she had for junior members, she stated, “Actively listen. Take notes. Be open to learn and absorb all the knowledge. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you truly don't know something or how to do something - just ask!”
Lastly, Tautest is the senior public affairs specialist for District 7. She is professional, tough, and caring. Above all she lives up to the motto that “Go ask the Chief” means you are going to get the answer you need (although maybe not want), the truth, and of course the respect required from a true deckplate leader.
As for what she feels makes a good chief, “A good chief is one who takes care of his or her people - listening, giving advice if asked, helping out in all shapes and forms, and being intrusive to make certain your crew is good.”
Thank you Chief for your excellent leadership and dedication to your crew and unit!
Do you have someone you would like to nominate for the Leader of the Week? Email Chief Petty Officer Crystalynn Kneen.