Toastmasters give Fairchild a voice Published Feb. 4, 2014 By Senior Airman Mary O'Dell 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE-Wash. -- Efficient communication can arguably be one if the greatest tools used as members move up through the ranks and Team Fairchild has a new group of men and women to assist in improving their public speaking skills. Having just had the fourth meeting this week, the Fairchild Toastmasters International Club is a private organization members can join to become part of a group where everyone learns to grow professionally as a public speaker at their own pace in a relaxed environment. "This is a great way for people to enhance their public speaking skills in a manner that works best for them," said Staff Sgt. Michael Herrington, 92nd Medical Group bioenvironmental engineer technician and Fairchild Toastmasters president. "It's an atmosphere meant to encourage members as they learn and work together." The club is open to all Department of Defense members, along with spouses and dependents. "Toastmasters is something any Airman can use," said Herrington. "It's something even people who are comfortable speaking can use to continue learning and improving." The meetings are not designed to judge or grade members on their performances, while other toastmasters give positive reinforcement and critiques. It is intended to be an extremely supportive place to better one's skills. "Members can set different goals to work towards through the 'Toastmaster's Educational Program,' so when they feel they're ready to give a speech during a meeting, they can," said Senior Airman Ariella Lewis, 92nd MDG bioenvironmental engineering technician and Fairchild Toastmasters vice president. "Everyone can move as slow or quickly as they need to." Starting small, members begin with the "ice breaker" first speech and then move through the next challenges as they gain confidence and feel more comfortable. "Most people are afraid that coming to these meetings, people will pick on you or make fun of you, but the case is completely the opposite," said Lewis. "Everyone has the same goals; to improve as better communicators and public speakers." Meetings are held every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Education Center in room 103 and last about an hour. Anyone interested is encouraged to attend to see if the class is for them. Participation is completely optional and only encouraged when members feel they are ready. "It's not a program for public speakers," said Herrington. "It's a program designed to make public speakers." For more information, contact Staff Sgt. Michael Herrington or Senior Airman Ariella Lewis at (509) 247-2391.