News

HVM production lead making the connection

  • Published
  • By Wayne Crenshaw
  • 78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
When the opportunity came up to serve on a new group aimed at enhancing labor and management relationships here, Doug Keene didn't have to think twice about it.

During his 23 years at Robins, the former industrial engineer and now product team lead for the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center's High Velocity Maintenance Team has made it his calling to try to do just that.

That's why Keene was one of eight people - evenly divided between labor and management - to be the first to join the Connectors group. The group has met once a month during the past year to discuss how both sides can work better together to improve the workplace and, ultimately, better support the warfighter.

"I have just always had the belief that if we work together, we can get anything done," he said. "We all want the same thing, which is to serve the Air Force as best as we can."

According to Keene, the Connectors group is having a positive impact.

The two sides have come to a mutual understanding on a number of issues. It's also set a good example for everyone in the Center, he said.

Bryce Padgett, a hydraulic mechanic in the HVM area, said he and his fellow mechanics highly respect Keene.

"He is just a straight up person and when you go to him for something, all of our needs are met," Padgett said.