MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Due to a Department of Defense mandate, the 5th Communications Squadron client systems section completed a base-wide Microsoft Windows 10 migration at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.
Since November 2017 client systems technicians worked endlessly to complete the upgrade. If the update was not completed by March 31, 2018, network connectivity would be lost. Not only did they complete their deadline, but also led the Major Command in the migration.
“We finished the migration early,” said Tech. Sgt. Stepheno Pomerlee, 5th CS client systems NCO in charge. “We were one of the first bases in Air Force Global Strike Command to finish it and now we have all Windows 10 computers across the base.”
With a shop of 16 Airmen, the section took initiative by replacing and updating older computers to help the transition to Windows 10.
“Our role was really hands on,” said Senior Airman Whittnee Lancaster, 5th CS client systems technician. “We went out and manually installed Windows 10 and upgraded computers around base. Our shop was the face of the update.”
The migration from Windows 7 to Windows 10 symbolizes how the Air Force prioritizes efficiency.
“As operating systems change, we have to keep up to ensure Minot can log onto the base network and continue its mission,” Pomerlee said. “We had to make sure we met that deadline, otherwise we’d have users who wouldn’t be able to perform their day-to-day duties.”
Members of the unit also mentioned how the upgrade allows Airmen to complete their tasks more efficiently and effectively.
“This update gives those who work on computers for several hours the opportunity to take their work home with them,” said Airman 1st Class Sarah Schaper, 5th CS client systems technician.
Likewise, Pomerlee added that because their shop distributed approximately 3,500 laptops with Windows 10, Airmen can now be more mobile with their work.
“This creates a better Air Force because people don’t have to be stuck at a desk for long periods of time after duty,” Pomerlee said.
Looking back on the update, Pomerlee notes how the unit was able to get everything ready in a timely manner.
“It was definitely a grind towards the end and I’m proud to say my shop did everything we could to ensure Airmen weren’t disconnected from the network,” Pomerlee said.