Formal training scheduling to centralize Published Nov. 9, 2007 RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) -- Scheduling of all Air Force-directed formal training historically accomplished by major command personnel and manpower directorates is being centralized at the Air Force Personnel Center here to streamline services and make maximum use of Air Force resources. Formal training includes all Air Force-level supplemental training (security, communications, electronics, etc.) and instruction at 7-level in-resident schools, as well as training at in-resident senior NCO and NCO academies. This initiative is another step for AFPC in delivering personnel services to all Airmen and was a part of major command personnel and manpower transformation. Currently, Air Force scheduling for these courses falls to training offices located at each major command. By March 2008, those tasks will be centralized at AFPC's Directorate of Personnel Services. "As we bring this process to AFPC, with its service center environment, we believe scheduling efforts focused at one location will simplify the process for our Airmen," said Col. Bill Foote, DPS director. "We'll also be able to prioritize our training goals from an Air Force-wide perspective." The first part of this initiative started in October when AFPC took over scheduling responsibilities from Air Education and Training Command for NCO Academy classes in the continental United States. As a result, MAJCOMs now work their NCO Academy scheduling through AFPC as opposed to AETC. For the NCO Academy and other Air Force-directed formal training, MAJCOMs will be removed from the scheduling process by March 2008 and units will work directly with AFPC. Until that time, all units will continue to follow current guidelines for scheduling through their base and MAJCOM offices. As part of the centralization process, designated e-mail boxes and a dedicated phone line will be added for training requests. "Once we work out the details, it will be a great benefit to the Air Force," said Chief Master Sgt. Kenneth Cunningham, chief of DPS' Air Force Education and Training Branch. "We'll be able to develop better relationships with the functional managers and meet the training needs of specific Air Force Specialty Codes more effectively." "With reductions in manpower at the major commands, the centralization of formal training became a 'must do,'" said Colonel Foote. "Now, our focus is to do it as effectively and efficiently as we can for our customers." Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) View the comments/letters page