AF introduces civilian acculturation, leadership program

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WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  Applications are now being accepted from Air Force civilian interns and Student Career Employment Program graduates for the Civilian Acculturation and Leadership Training program.

This opportunity is a chief of staff initiative designed as an intensive leadership development program for civilians new to the Air Force.

"This is truly a first-of-its kind opportunity for our civilians," said Mr. Joseph McDade, Force Development Director for the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower and Personnel. "This in-residence acculturation and leadership training program ensures a balanced portfolio of leadership development for all Airmen -- officers, enlisted and civilians."

"The Air Force is at a historic cross-road with regards to our civilians," Mr. McDade said. "As we've drawn down, civilian leadership opportunities have increased, particularly among our support communities. The program stems from the need to ensure our civilian developmental paths are as deliberate as those of every other Airman."

Modeled on the Officer Training School curriculum, the program provides an in-residence experience focused on Air Force culture and missions. Civilian participants will live under the same rules and conditions as OTS candidates. They will live in the OTS dorm and eat in the OTS dining facility.

The curriculum will also parallel the leadership modules taught at OTS and will include team-building exercises, some outdoor activities, simulation exercises, and time for personal health and wellness to help maintain a level of physical fitness. It is an intensive leadership development program and will entail outside reading and projects.

CALT is a pilot program consisting of four classes with 25 students each, for a total of 100 graduates in fiscal year 2009. Participant feedback will drive its future. Classes will be taught at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala. Volunteers may select a primary and alternate date; however, final class dates will be based on Air Force needs. The first class is scheduled for Oct. 27 to Nov. 7.

Interested civilians must be in the COPPER CAP Program, which hires contract specialists only, or the PALACE Acquire Program, which hires from various career fields. Also eligible are graduates of SCEPs. Candidates must self-nominate and also have two to three years of continuous Air Force service before May 31, 2009, no previous military experience, a bachelor's degree and exhibit leadership qualities.

Submit nomination packages to the Directorate of Civilian Force Integration at the Air Force Personnel Center no later than Aug. 1.

For more information, call Dianne Cheatham at DSN 225-9090 or (703) 695-9090. 

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