by Lt. Col. Ann Stefanek
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
3/28/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Air Force leaders expanded an opportunity for active duty junior and mid-grade officers to cross-flow into one of many rated AFSCs with the announcement of an additional undergraduate flying training board.
The board is scheduled to be held in July at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.
Greater opportunities exist for active duty Air Force officers to be selected for undergraduate flying training, said Maj. Eric Weber, the chief of rated force policy -- mobility forces.
"Although the Air Force currently has more officers serving than it is authorized, shortages exist in certain critical skills to include some rated specialties," Major Weber said. "For that reason, the Air Force will conduct two undergraduate flying training boards this fiscal year. A second board will allow the Air Force to select additional personnel to cross-flow into rated specialties, using the undergraduate flying training board process, which is critical to helping the Air Force balance requirements between Air Force specialties."
According to Major Weber, opportunities will be available in several rated specialties, but requirements in the remotely piloted aircraft career field in particular are increasing because of growing operational demands.
"The insatiable demand for RPA capabilities continues to grow, resulting in increased opportunities to cross-flow into the RPA pilot career field," said Maj. Casey Tidgewell, the RPA specialty manager.
Application requirements include flying-class physicals and aptitude testing similar to previous years' boards, but Air Force officials noted that medical requirements have changed due to new RPA pilot eligibility criteria and applicants should not be discouraged to apply if they require an exception to policy for age and/or service dates, officials said.
Prior to Air Force Personnel Center officials releasing the board announcement message, officials urge officers to begin building application packages early to avoid delays in testing and medical examinations.
"We're seeking the best and the brightest to strategically re-balance the officer corps and meet rated growth requirements for the Air Force and our combatant commanders." Major Weber said. "The doors are open for applicants to pursue rated career opportunities through undergraduate flying training."
For more information, call the special flying programs section at DSN 665-2330 or commercial at 210-565-2330.
