September 2017 Spotlight Airman

  • Published
  • By SrA Enjoli Saunders
  • 175th Wing Public Affairs
Baltimore --  Name: Natalie T. Nieves-Gonzalez

Rank: Airman 1st Class, E-3

Unit: 175 Force Support Squadron

Job Description: Services

Fulltime job: Recruiting and Retention Administrator

Hometown: Ponce, Puerto Rico

Joined the MDANG: July 8, 2015

Total Service years: 2 years

Family: I’m Hispanic, family is never ending.

Favorite Movie: The Sandlot & 13 Going on 30

Favorite food: Guanimes con bacalao…Google it

Favorite Sports Team: New York Mets


Tell us your brief life story?
I was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico. In 2006, I moved to Maryland with my parents and brother. The language barrier and different culture was a big challenge for me, however, I have enjoyed living in Maryland. My senior year of high school I began the recruiting process with the Maryland Air National Guard. Once I returned from technical school, I began going to college to pursue a degree in Marketing.


Tell us about your military career?
My military career is just getting started. I have been back from technical school for about a year. Within this year, I have become knowledgeable with base services operations, recruiting, retention, and marketing through social media. I had great teachers and mentors along the way. I know I have a lot more to learn. I am excited and receptive to it all.


What brought you to the MDANG? How have you enjoyed your time here?
The person that brought me to the MDANG was my brother, Luis Nieves. My brother joined the active-duty Air Force after high school to pay for college. When he felt I was ready, he told me about the Air National Guard and put me in contact with a recruiter. Thanks to my brother, I am able to pay for my education, get in better physical shape, and find my career interest in life. I have truly enjoyed my time here. I love the diversity of working with services but also working for recruiting and retention.


What is your favorite Air Force or military memory or story?
My favorite Air Force memory was in Basic Military Training when I was dorm chief and marched my flight during the Airman’s Coin Ceremony. Being dorm chief gave me the opportunity to assist my military training instructor with awarding the Airman’s Coin. That was pretty neat!

What is your proudest moment?
Being the first female in my family to join the military.

What are you passionate about?
Helping others and béisbol.