"There is no better candidate in the state to undertake this demanding joint assignment," Washington Air National Guard Commander, Brigadier General John Tuohy said.  "Chief Almond will continue to guide our enlisted corps in her new position and will bring unity of effort to the Washington Army and Air National Guard."

On October 15, 2015, I had the opportunity to interview Chief Master Sgt. Trisha Almond, who was recently promoted from the Washington National Guard's State Command Chief to the new Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Washington National Guard.

Gary Lott: "With always moving, always being nonstop, always progressing, when you actually get a free moment in your mind, what thoughts do you have?"

Trisha Almond: When I have a few moments to myself I always try to remember the family balance.  Without my three daughters and their unwavering support, I wouldn't be where I am today.  They are the rocks of my foundation and I always work on being a positive role model for each of them.

LOTT: "With all of the accomplishments, and all the goals of yesteryear checked off, what are your main priorities and goals moving forward now?"

Almond: One of the things I want to work on are opportunities for our transitioning soldiers and airmen to ensure they are able to find civilian employment if they have been fulltime or get them some training in a civilian environment if they are an M-Day or Drill Status Guardsman.  Additionally - I am all about professional development and creating avenues to teach our enlisted members about leadership and followership ... it is essential we continue to build our bench for the future ... always training our replacements, to include within a joint environment.

LOTT: What will be some of the most difficult challenges with your new position?

Almond: This challenge hasn't changed for me from my last few duty assignments - the suicide rates of our soldiers and airmen are way too high.  Losing one is - one too many.  We need to figure out ways to get our members to open up when things in their personal or professional lives are not going well.  We have resources for them; we just need to get them the help they need.

LOTT: How will the lower enlisted servicemembers benefit with you in the position?

Almond: Once again I am looking at ways to develop the force from E-9s down to our E-1s.  We need to find ways to give our younger members more responsibilities outside of their normal MOS/AFSC duties.  We need to get them out of their comfort zones and push them to become better.  I am going to continue pushing this message to our senior enlisted members so they can help find those opportunities as well.

LOTT: What has been one of your most cherished military memories?

Almond: I would have to say the work I did at the Western Air Defense Sector immediately following the events of 9-11.  That team of individuals is constantly working to defend the skies of America and I am proud of the time I served with them.

LOTT: What new duty are you responsible now for that evokes the most pride and affirmation?

Almond: The overwhelming sense of responsibility of ensuring our Washington National Guard soldiers and airmen are being taken care of - both professionally and personally.