Airmen selected for dental training program

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Richard B. Searles
  • Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (AFPN) --  Air Force Dental Service officials have selected the next group of dental assistants to participate in the Dental Hygiene Training Scholarship Program, conducted at Trident Technical College in Charleston, S.C. and St. Petersburg College in Tampa, Fla.

Ten current Air Force dental assistants were chosen recently to attend the 18-24 month program. They will remain on active duty while attending college full time to achieve the requirements needed to become a dental hygienist. The program covers the cost for all books, equipment, educational materials and fees associated with the training.

"We had 40 applicants apply for the 10 slots," said Chief Master Sgt. Alan Onufrak, command dental manager in Air Education and Training Command's office of the command surgeon. He also is the administrator of the program.

"This is a one-of-a-kind program in the Air Force for enlisted members," said Chief Onufrak. "There is no other AFSC that affords their Airmen the opportunity to go to a civilian training program, at Air Force expense, and stay on active duty."

Airmen selected to attend Trident Technical College starting in January 2008 and graduating in May 2009 are: 
-- Staff Sgt. Lynette Pace
-- Staff Sgt. Jane Fernandez-Hernandez
-- Staff Sgt. Meriles Curry
-- Staff Sgt. Anabel Parks

Airmen selected to attend St. Petersburg College starting in May 2008 and graduating in May 2010 are:
-- Staff Sgt. Arkelia Hamlet
-- Staff Sgt. Kathryn De Jesus
-- Staff Sgt. Natalie Hoyt
-- Staff Sgt. Deborah Garza
-- Senior Airman Halima Burton
-- Senior Airman Kristen Pool

Twenty-two Airmen have graduated from the dental hygiene program since it started in May 2003. Upon graduation, the hygienists have a three-year active duty service commitment.

"This is a very demanding program," said Chief Onufrak. "However our Airmen selected for this program have continued to excel. Many of them have earned a number of awards and honors while in the program. They have truly represented, and continue to represent, the Air Force Dental Service, Air Force Medical Service and the Air Force very well." 

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