Chief Master Sergeant Janna S. Wesley, Senior Enlisted Leader for the 42nd Mission Support Group, embarked on her Air Force journey in 1995, driven by a desire to break free from the familiar cycle of her hometown. With no interest in college but a deep yearning for something more, she took a leap of faith into military service. Over time, what began as a means of escape transformed into a passion for service, mentorship and leadership. Finally retiring after a career spanning decades, Chief Wesley spent her career committed to guiding Airmen through their own journeys, ensuring they felt supported as they navigated the challenges and triumphs of military life.
“I know firsthand what it feels like to walk in your calling—your superpower. Seeing an Airman doing what they love hypes me up, and if I can help a dimmed Airman get their spark/fire back, that’s what I will do.”
When did you join the Air Force?
I joined on April 13, 1995. My initial reason for joining was simply to leave my hometown of Macon, Georgia. I wanted more than what my community was offering. I decided to stay beyond retirement eligibility for the Airmen. How I felt during my first few years never left me, and I wanted to help others navigate that as well.
Who was instrumental in supporting you throughout your journey?
My family, specifically my son, my parents and my grandparents—I wanted them to be proud of me. As for mentors, there are too many to name. A few standouts are retired CMSgts Willie Applewhite, Buddie Hutchison, Shelina Frey, Margarita Overton, former CMSAF JoAnne Bass and former CMSSF Roger Towberman. Each one was different, but I admired all of their honesty, candor, boldness and humility.
Can you share a challenging moment in your career and how you overcame it?
I had recently lost my mom to cancer, learned my dad had cancer, was going through a divorce and was selected to be a Professional Military Education (PME) instructor at Robins NCOA. Also, my son had started kindergarten and was diagnosed with autism. Learning a new job that provided little flexibility, being there for my son, coping with the loss of my mom, fearing that my father may be next—that was a lot! How did I overcome it? My faith, my family and having good leaders.
What are you most proud of throughout your career?
I am proud of helping Airmen realize their greatness, pursue what keeps them on fire and navigate challenges—personal and professional. I operate behind the scenes and some of my most blessed moments have been when an Airman is at their lowest. The Lord made a way for us to connect and walk that portion of the journey together.
What advice would you give to young airmen just starting their careers?
My advice is to find out how you’re connected to the mission and how your role impacts others. As a new Airman, I knew what to do, but knowing the “why” impacted how I did my job and helped me become invested. It gave me purpose and let me know the critical importance of effective communication and teamwork.
What personal accomplishment are you most proud of?
Being a single parent in the military is not for the weak. It can be hard. I’m most proud of staying true to myself so that I could be who my son and the Air Force needed me to be. When those lines got blurred, either my son or the Air Force helped me decide what to do.
Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently during your career?
I wish I had pursued being the 3F0 Career Field Manager (CFM) earlier. I love being a personnelist and right now, we seem to be struggling. The attraction always seems to involve aircraft, pilots and cyber. Personnel is such a vital career field. I regret not positioning myself to be the CFM. With the help of others, I know we could have accomplished much.
What are your plans for retirement?
Right now, my only plans are to travel and enjoy time with my family/friends.
Personal Motto: “Be relentless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”
