Automated system replaces base operators

  • Published
  • By Sachel Seabrook
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  With the cancellation of the base's switchboard contract ending Sept. 30, callers will no longer speak to a "live" person when calling the base operator.

"We are trying to make this transition as easy as possible for all customers," said Lt. Col. Stamatis Smeltz, 96th Communications Squadron commander. "We hope the use of an automated tool will help customers easily reach the appropriate office."

In order to minimize the impact to the Eglin and Hurlburt Field communities, 96 CS will implement an automated call tree as of Oct 1. This automated system allows a caller to step through the menu options.

"It's important to know that this is not a personnel directory," said Larry Holmes, chief of operations flight. "It will lead callers to specific offices, not people."

A call-by-name option will only be available to users with an active voicemail box. The caller will be prompted to spell out the person's last name using the dial pad.

Callers may continue to use the electronic phone directory on the Eglin website, www.eglin.af.mil. It is located in the Eglin quick links tab in the right column, under "Misc."

"This system is targeting the people who work off base," said Mr. Holmes. "We are hoping people on base will be more inclined to use the global network."

This network is only available to those with access to the Air Force electronic mail.

The automated phone number will still remain the same as the current base operator's number, 882-1110 or "0" while using an Eglin phone on base.