JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- Lt. Col. Michael “Slice” Piazza was recognized as a Hidden Hero by The Chamber for his leadership and innovation in advancing pilot and weapon systems officer, combat systems officer, introduction to fighter fundamentals and T-7A Red Hawk training at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph.
Piazza, a member of the 99th Flying Training Squadron and the Government Flight Representative overseeing maintenance and flight operations for the Air Force’s newest trainer aircraft, led the bed down of Boeing operations supporting the T-7A Red Hawk at Randolph. His work helped establish the foundation for future undergraduate pilot and WSO training within Air Education and Training Command.
As part of the aircraft’s introduction, Piazza executed more than 70 hours of simulator testing to validate systems and training scenarios. He also participated in the arrival and ferry of the first T-7A assigned to AETC, marking a milestone in the modernization of Air Force flight training.
Beyond aircraft integration, Piazza authored the Weapons Systems Officer T-7 syllabus, shaping how future officers will train in the advanced trainer. He also wrote the current Weapons Systems Officer Fighter-Bomber Fundamentals syllabus, standardizing foundational combat aviation instruction across the enterprise.
He established the 99th FTS Safety Shop and guided the unit through its first Wing Safety inspection, which concluded with only two minor observations, a notable achievement for a newly activated program.
In addition to his operational duties, Piazza serves as AETC’s subject matter expert for the development of the command’s next-generation learning management system, collaborating with AETC leaders and industry contractors to modernize academic and simulator-based instruction.
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The Hidden Hero award recognizes individuals whose behind-the-scenes leadership significantly impacts the local community and national defense. Piazza’s contributions have directly supported the Air Force’s transition to fifth-generation training capabilities while strengthening partnerships between the military and industry.
Through innovation in syllabus development, simulator validation and safety oversight, Piazza’s work ensures the next generation of Airmen are prepared to meet evolving operational demands.