Test program recruit prepares Airmen at USAF Special Operations School

  • Published
  • By Karen Harrison
  • Language, Region and Culture Program Office
WASHINGTON (AFNS) --  The challenges of today's dynamic, global environment constantly require the Air Force to be prepared to engage with every region of the world.
 
National security depends on the Air Force accomplishing its mission in each unique regional environment. Senior Airman Pawel Jarosz understands the ability to speak directly with our international partners enhances mission effectiveness.

"Most of the world speaks at least two languages," Jarosz said. "Being proficient in a language other than English is vital to get around abroad."

Born in Poland, Jarosz came to the United States to pursue his education and said he knows firsthand the importance of learning a language in order to succeed in a foreign society.

"I learned English in order to become educated and succeed in America," he said.

After completing school, Jarosz said he wanted to give something back to this country.

"After receiving a wonderful education, I wanted to show my appreciation to the United States," Jarosz said. "I joined the Air Force."

In 2008, Jarosz enlisted in the Air Force through a pilot program known as the Military Accessions Vital to National Interest program. The MAVNI pilot program allows select legal noncitizens who possess critical skills are able to enlist and receive U.S. citizenship.

Pilot programs such as MAVNI demonstrate the significant emphasis that the Defense Department places on language skills. MAVNI not only targets individuals with language and culture capabilities but also noncitizens with medical expertise, for example.

As a teacher and cultural adviser, Jarosz leverages his language ability to prepare Airmen for deployment at the U.S. Air Force Special Operations School. In his role as a cultural adviser, he prepares Airmen and other service members for interacting and working with their Polish counterparts.

Teaching Airmen about the Polish culture, advising the course directors on curriculum and giving speeches on the importance of international understanding to both Airmen and foreign counterparts are all key aspects of his duties.

"We are living in a globalized world," Jarosz said. "Everyone should learn another language to further their career, regardless of their job."