Officers can be commissioned up to the rank of colonel (O-6) if they possess the level of experience necessary. Additionally, OTS maintains an air expeditionary force garrison training site, a 200-acre field training facility, confidence course and two expeditionary assault courses. The final phase concentrates on mentoring and the progression to the everyday life of an Air Force Officer. In addition, AvCads had to successfully complete either undergraduate pilot training or undergraduate navigator training before they could be commissioned as Second Lieutenants. The goal of this training is to instill high standards of conduct and provide officer trainees with the essential military knowledge and skills needed for effective performance as Air Force leaders. Course #MOTS-002 (5-week), Reserve Commissioned Officer Officer Trainees were also re-designated as Cadets in 2015, again on par with USAFA and AFROTC and reminiscent of the Aviation Cadet program in operation in USAF and its predecessor incarnations (e.g., USAAS, USAAC, USAAF, etc.) Whether you have specific questions about how to join the Air Force, are seeking more information or are ready to apply, were here to help. Building on the Indoctrination phase, the second phase focuses on learning Air Force history, basic combat skills, and the importance of cross-cultural competence in relation to the Air Force mission. The phase three training program includes: The emphasis in the classroom during phase three includes: The fourth and final stage of the Air Force Officer Training School helps officers make the transition from training to the operational USAF. [5][6] During these periods of contractions, OTS produces few officers, making selection for the OTS program particularly difficult and competitive for college graduates, especially those with no prior enlisted service, particularly USAF enlisted service.[6]. To ensure OTS graduates have the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective Air Force officers, OTS faculty members provide instruction and guidance in critical officership areas such as leadership studies, professional knowledge, communication skills, military studies and field leadership application. The multiple-choice exam features topics that range from verbal and math skills to questions regarding your specific field(s) of interest. . OTS standards and expectations are very high and our training is intentionally rigorous because the Airmen who you will one day lead deserve no less than the finest officers our Air Force has to offer. However, by 2017, selection rates had increased to the 65% range or greater, reflecting the increased commissioned officer needs of the service.[9][10]. The Air Force reviews every officer application through the Officer Training School Selection or Air Force Recruiting Services. 1.4.3. The first phase introduces the fundamentals of leadership, military management, as well as the culture of the USAF. [15][16] OTS then became the sole organization for training future Air Force officers at Lackland AFB. The U.S. Air Force Officer Training School (OTS) is located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Ala. I look forward to returning your salute at the end of this rewarding experience as our newest Air Force officers. Active duty Air Force officers and enlisted personnel interested in becoming rated officers have until May 25, 2021 to apply for the Fall 2021 Rated Preparatory Program that is scheduled to be heldSept. 11-25, 2021. The Air Force Officer Training School (OTS) has four training phases: Phase one focuses on teamwork, discipline, and standardization. However, a few months later, family tragedy struck twice, forcing her to leave the academy and delaying her dream of becoming an officer and pilot. She was also deployed to Southwest Asia as an Air Force contractor. The purpose of the Air Force Officer Training School (OTS) is to establish high standards of conduct for prospective officers. The number of OTS graduates has varied over the years, from 323 the first year to a high of 7,894 officers in 1967.[14]. Curtis E. LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education, Thomas N. Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, --Air Force Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, --USAF Chief Master Sergeant Leadership Course, --Air Force Enlisted Heritage Research Institute, Officer Accessions and Citizen Development, Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions & Citizen Development, --Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, --Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp, Ira C. Eaker Center for Leadership Development, --Defense Financial Management & Comptroller School, --Force Support Professional Development School, USAF Center for Strategic Deterrence Studies, USAF Center for Strategic Leadership Communication, - ther Journal of Strategic Airpower & Spacepower, Revista Profesional de la Fuerza Area de EUA, Continente Americano, Revista Profissional da Fora Area dos EUA, Continente Americano, Journal of Military Conflict Transformation (JMCT), Air University Educational Support Services, Air University Learner Portal (CaC Required), Air Force Virtual Education Center (AFVEC), Chief of Staff of the Air Force Leadership Library, Welcome to Air Force Officer Training School, Hosted by Defense Media Activity - WEB.mil. This rigorous 8.5 week program will build your character and give you the skills you need to become an officer who is prepared to lead fellow Airmen. There are four main ways to become an Air Force Officer. However, you can only attend Air Force OTS after graduating from college with a four-year degree. Each option has different requirements and advantages. It was an experience that forever changed my perspective on the U.S. Air Force (USAF), and my role as a Hispanic officer and leader. To educate and train officers of character who are committed to the Air Force core values equipped to lead and ready to win. An Oath of Office and official graduation ceremony makes it official you are now a commissioned officer of the United States Air Force. You will discover that this training is critical to hone and develop your leadership skills, as well as provide you with the necessary tools to be the best Air and Space Force officer you can be. Attend the US Air Force Academy Join Air Force ROTC In College Enlist and work towards becoming an Air Force Officer Biography. The program consists of 30 hours of prerequisite distance learning and eight weeks of military training and leadership development for college graduates. APPLY NOW CHAT LIVE CAREER BROWSER Find the careers that suit you. This is the story of one such U.S. Air Force Pilot as he describes what it's like to fly it and what makes this jet an air dominance fighter. As they sat down in classes this week and began a new year-long training program, the CSO (pronounced "Sizzo") students became part of a fundamental transformation . Direct Commission Officers: Chaplains, Judge Advocates (JAG) and medical professionals from all across the Air Force (Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, Health Professional Scholarship Kristen Baker-Geczy is a communications specialist, active duty military spouse, and former MWR marketing coordinator. Good luck and I look forward to serving with you. Upon arrival at OTS, all personnel will be advanced to pay grade E-5 (unless prior enlisted already holding a higher pay grade), but will hold the rank of Officer Trainee versus USAF Staff Sergeant. Each training program is designed to help you find your mental and physical strengths and to develop the skills and values necessary to succeed in the Air Force and achieve your goals. While you should celebrate your accomplish and enjoy Air Force OTS graduation, your work is often far from done. But it's a much faster entry point to commissioning if you can qualify. 14 Followers. Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps: 334-953-9420 Officer Training School: 334-953-5222 Ira C. Eaker Center for Leadership Development: 334-953-2864 Air Force Judge Advocate General's School: 334-953-2802 AFSNCO Academy: 334-416-2900 First Sergeant's Academy: 334-416-2900 Noncommissioned Officer Academy: 334-416-2900 Related Article: Your Complete Guide To MEPS. The Air Force introduces basic combat skills and cross-cultural competence during phase two. Curtis E. LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education, Thomas N. Barnes Center for Enlisted Education, --Air Force Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, --USAF Chief Master Sergeant Leadership Course, --Air Force Enlisted Heritage Research Institute, Officer Accessions and Citizen Development, Jeanne M. Holm Center for Officer Accessions & Citizen Development, --Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, --Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp, Ira C. Eaker Center for Leadership Development, --Defense Financial Management & Comptroller School, --Force Support Professional Development School, USAF Center for Strategic Deterrence Studies, USAF Center for Strategic Leadership Communication, - ther Journal of Strategic Airpower & Spacepower, Revista Profesional de la Fuerza Area de EUA, Continente Americano, Revista Profissional da Fora Area dos EUA, Continente Americano, Journal of Military Conflict Transformation (JMCT), Air University Educational Support Services, Air University Learner Portal (CaC Required), Air Force Virtual Education Center (AFVEC), Chief of Staff of the Air Force Leadership Library, Welcome to Air Force Officer Training School, Hosted by Defense Media Activity - WEB.mil. Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance Liaison Officer. Relationships between the Air Forces top educational institutions continue to grow two years after the Air Force Academy superintendent and Air University president signed an agreement combining resources to benefit the service and the Space Force. The 908th Airlift Wing's Development and Training Flight has partnered with U.S. Air Force Officer Training School Military Training Instructors to prepare Airman for Basic Military Training. Typically, these officers have degrees, such as MDiv, MD, DO, DPM, OD, DDS, DMD, PharmD, Physician Assistant PA-C PhD, PsyD, BSN or MSN, MSW, or JD, in the case of chaplains, physicians, physician assistants, podiatrists, optometrists, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and lawyers, respectively. OTS graduates enter the Air Force in all components: active duty, Reserve, and Guard. [4], The number of officers commissioned through OTS fluctuates considerably as their numbers are largely influenced by the number of graduating cadets through the USAF Academy and AFROTC, as well as being the first place the Air Force cuts when they have a surplus of cadets through the other two sources. Our instructors are highly motivated, exceptionally talented and extremely dedicated to their obligation to ensure that every student who passes through this program develops the skills necessary to be an outstanding Air Force officer. After you complete Officer Training School you may need to complete additional training at another Air Force base, depending on the specialty. The last AvCad pilot was commissioned in October 1961 at the former Reese AFB, Texas, and the last AvCad navigator was commissioned in March 1965, at the former James Connally AFB, Texas. Additionally, once you in-process at OTS, all religious accommodation requests must be submitted and approved by your flight instructor. The first and most popular method is to attend Air Force Officer Training School (OTS). Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps comprises 145 detachments with more than 1,100 associated cross-town universities, four regional headquarters and a higher headquarters staff located at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. HUNTSVILLE, Al. What is the Air Force Officer Training School (OTS)? OTS is a group-level command with three squadrons and one Air National Guard detachment that trained 3,076 officers in fiscal year 2018. The purpose of the officer training course is to train and commission new officers to fulfill Air Force active duty, Reserve and Guard requirements, in partnership with the U.S. Air Force Academy and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. The selective process is purposely designed that way to make sure you have what it takes to become an officer. Inbound trainees, ensure you view the 'Welcome Guide'. 4. The first few weeks of training are geared toward orienting the cadet with Air Force standards. You need to have a four-year college degree before the Air Force will consider an application to Officer Training School. For a short period during the build up of the Air Force to meet the demands of the Vietnam War, as many as three OTS Squadrons were based directly at Lackland AFB. The OTS instructors are here to guide you through the program, but your successful completion of the course depends ultimately on your complete commitment to your training. Air Force OTS takes place at Maxwell Air Force Base. The officer training program takes place at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama. OTS Welcome Guide has information covering arrival, orders, packing lists, and more. The program is not an official recruiting tool for the military services and those students who participate in Air Force JROTC do not incur any obligation to the Air Force. As you pack your bags and head towards Maxwell AFB, we want to encourage you to bring any religious items that may encourage your spiritual resiliency (i.g., faith books/devotionals, religious apparel, Eucharistic Mass kits, rosary, and/or prayer mats). Related Article Army OCS Guide: Preparing For Army Officer Training. There are three types of people who attend OCS: Here are some of the activities and requirements youll complete during phase four. Each committee reviews candidates to find the most appropriate selections for Air Force Officer Training School. The Air Force Officer Qualifying Test is a standardized test similar to the SAT and ACT.The AFOQT measures aptitudes and is used to select applicants for officer commissioning programs, such as Officer Training School (OTS) or Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (Air Force ROTC). Basic Expeditionary Leadership Problem Solving (BELPS), Air Force Combatives Program (IE hand-to-hand combat), Preparation for the Arrival of the Lower Class, Professional and Unprofessional Relationships. In February 1997, in an effort to reduce duplication of effort and streamline administrative and reporting procedures within AU, AFROTC and OTS realigned under a newly created umbrella organization, Air Force Officer Accession and Training Schools (AFOATS). 4. Following is a brief overview of the training during each phase of OTS: The first phase of Air Force OTS focuses on teamwork, discipline, and standardization with an emphasis on leadership fundamentals, military management, and Air Force culture. Trainees who have facial hair must have a religious or medical waiver. You'll be provided with the shared common experience in military. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Andy Yacenda, Defense Media Activity-San Antonio). AFOQT scores, college GPA, previous enlisted performance evaluations if a current or former enlisted member, and, if applicable, previous pilot skills as either an FAA-certified civilian pilot and/or as a U.S. Army warrant officer / Army Aviator will all figure into the selection process, although the selection process strives to employ a composite or "whole person" approach. Regardless, youll receive the classification of Second Lieutenant (O-1) after completing Air Force OTS. All religious materials must be secured with your personal belongings and placed out-of-site in order to preserve the religious freedom and respect of others. The Air Force OTS program is divided into four distinct phases. Orientation Course #MOTS-003. Military bearing includes the ability to write and verbally brief, lead the flight, and perform duties within the Cadet Wing. If you are interested in a career as an Air Force officer and considering applying to OTS, contact your local Air Force recruiter via the Air Force recruiting web site www.airforce.com. Phase 1: Foundation OTS-A serves all Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard non-line officers (except for Reserve and Air National Guard health professionals as noted below) and judge advocates who did not previously serve as line officers in other career fields or who were not commissioned via USAFA or AFROTC. The United States Air Force expects a lot from its commissioned officers which really isnt much different from other uniformed branches. Course #MOTS-002 (5-week), Reserve Commissioned Officer The Air Force requires you to have a four-year college degree or meet the guidelines for OTS in an alternative method. Check OTS Website for the most current version 2 weeks prior to class start date for any changes. Attachments may not display initially, but will when file is downloaded. Cadets will be expected to work with their fellow flight and squadron members to accomplish specific tasks as required by their Flight Commander and the Cadet Wing. OTS is for four-year university and college graduates without prior military service (commonly known as non-prior service), as well as Active Component enlisted, Air Force Reserve enlisted, Air National Guard enlisted and former enlisted personnel from any of the six U.S. armed services with college degrees at the baccalaureate level or higher who wish to become Air Force officers. The focus is on physical training, drill and ceremonies, and academics. Air Force officer training may be the most technically-oriented of any service. And on your final day, youll celebrate all of your hard work with your family, friends and fellow graduates during the graduation ceremony. Relationships between the Air Forces top educational institutions continue to grow two years after the Air Force Academy superintendent and Air University president signed an agreement combining resources to benefit the service and the Space Force. - RallyPoint", "My Journey Through Air Force Officer Training School", "DoD Financial Management Regulation, Volume 7A, Chapter 1: "BASIC PAY", http://o2tb.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=50:nav-cadet-program&catid=35:n-history&Itemid=18, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Air_Force_Officer_Training_School&oldid=1117840735, This page was last edited on 23 October 2022, at 21:29. Our instructors are highly motivated, exceptionally talented and extremely dedicated to their obligation to ensure that every student who passes through this program develops the skills necessary to be an outstanding Air Force officer. Officer Candidate School (OCS) also known as Officer Training School (OTS) in the Air Force, or the Marine Corps Platoon Leaders Course (PLC) in the United States Marine Corps prepares recruits for the challenges of officer life, from managing others to understanding military culture and law. Culminating in graduation from OTS, phase four focuses on mentorship and the transition into becoming an Air Force officer. OTS, which was formerly under ATC, and Air Force ROTC, which was formerly under AU, were then realigned under both AETC and AU. If you have any questions, please contact the OTS Chaplain at 334-462-4412. Course #MOTS-002 (5-week), Reserve Commissioned Officer Youll get the tools to build on your strengths, earn a degree, lead others and take your career to the highest level. After graduating from Air Force OTS, many officers attend additional training to focus on specialties like piloting, navigation, space and missile operations, or other specialties. 1. OTS standards and expectations are very high and our training is intentionally rigorous because the Airmen who you will one day lead deserve no less than the finest officers our Air Force has to offer. The Officer Training School staff consists of full-time active duty, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard members, including 106 officers, 42 enlisted and nine civilian personnel, as well as seven Air Force Reserve individual mobilization augmentee officers. --Officer Training School Leadership & Professional Development Main Menu Academics Leadership & Professional Development Ira C. Eaker Center for Leadership Development --Air Force Chaplain Corps College --Air Force First Sergeant Academy --Civilian Leadership Development School --Commanders School We are a community sharing information about the process of becoming an Officer in the United States Air Force. Congratulations on your selection to attend the Officer Training School (OTS). Technical fields may include any ABET-accredited engineering degree or other fields in high demand by the Air Force. Secondly, you must pass the medical and mental screening at a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Speaking with a local Air Force recruiter can help answer more questions about specific requirements for Officer Training School. I know that you are up to the challenge of OTS. The purpose of phase one of Air Force OTS is to provide an orientation to the skills you need to serve as a well-respected leader. [14], OTS was organized at Lackland AFB, Texas, in November 1959, with the first OTS class (60-A) composed of 89 officer trainees, including 11 women, who graduated and were commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants on 9 February 1960. If you have any questions, please contact the OTS Chaplain at 334-462-4412. Prospective Officers receive evaluations on their leadership potential, moral standards, and academic strengths. Within minutes, the future officers hustle to get dressed and formed up for physical training. The length of training varies according to the specialty. It is the current de facto officer candidate school (OCS) program for the U.S. Air Force, analogous to the OCS programs operated by the other branches of the U.S. armed forces. Without either one of these waivers, the trainee will be required to shave, immediately, until a waiver is obtained. Named for the late Major General Jeanne M. Holm, the Holm Center falls under Air University (AU), which, in turn, falls under the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), an Air Force major command (MAJCOM). Whether you have specific questions about how to join the Air Force, are seeking more information or are ready to apply, were here to help. Trainees who have facial hair must have a religious or medical waiver. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Air Force Officer Training School (OTS): Related Article 10 Best Air Force Jobs For Civilian Life. After gaining basic flight skills, some officers might get the opportunity to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (also commonly referred to as "drones"). Air Force OTS is a nine-and-a-half-week course that develops future commissioned officers of the Air Force through an intense program based on academics, physical training, and personal and professional development. Related Article Pros And Cons Of Joining The Air Force. Inbound trainees, select the above link to view the 'Welcome Guide'. All religious materials must be secured with your personal belongings and placed out-of-site in order to preserve the religious freedom and respect of others. Though the acceptance rate is not extremely low it does reject plenty of candidates. Accession numbers fluctuate in response to variations between projected and actual U.S. Air Force Academy and Air Force ROTC officer accessions and Air Force end-strength requirements. Training specialties include pilot, navigator, air battle manager, space and missile operations and other career fields. the school and the Air Force. All Rights Reserved. Trainees who have facial hair must have a religious or medical waiver. OCS moved to Lackland AFB in the spring of 1944 and gained the additional mission of training officers directly from civilian status in September 1951. If you are currently an active duty Air Force enlisted member, contact your base education office or military personnel section. After five weeks, the already-commissioned OTS-A students that have successfully completed the course graduate and move on to either follow-on technical training or their initial assignments. If need be, one of the chaplains can help provide or facilitate your request. Our primary mission at OTS is to educate and train officers of character, who are committed to the Air Force Core Values - equipped to lead and ready to win. OTS Welcome Guide has information covering arrival, orders, packing lists, and more. Course #MOTS-005 (8-week), Officer Training Abbreviated While employed as a Correctional Officer, I quickly . Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) Instructor Lee's Summit R-7 School District Aug 2021 . (U.S. Air Force graphic by Andy Yacenda, Defense Media Activity-San Antonio), Mission Those that receive approval may enter the Delayed Entry Program until its time to depart for Air Force Officer Training School. You can only take the Air Force Qualifying Test twice so make sure you study and prepare for the exam. Officer Candidate School (OCS), known as Officer Training School (OTS) in the Air Force, is an officer program for recruits who have a four-year degree and did not do an ROTC program. You can apply to go to Officer Training School, attend the Air Force Academy, go through Air Force ROTC in college, or enlist and work your way towards becoming an Officer. https://velosteam.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Space-Force-Report.pdf, "Learn About Air Force Fitness Tests in Officer Training", "Military Downsizing: Balancing Accessions and Losses Is Key to Shaping the Future Force", "With the 65% Air Force Officer Training School (OTS) acceptance rate, does anyone have advice if I were to apply? MOTS-003: 2-week program, Officer Training School-Reserve Commissioned Officer Orientation (RCOO) 1.4.4. --Officer Training School Leadership & Professional Development Main Menu Academics Leadership & Professional Development Ira C. Eaker Center for Leadership Development --Air Force Chaplain Corps College --Air Force First Sergeant Academy --Civilian Leadership Development School --Commanders School Prospective officers start to experience the pressures of leadership and command. Commandant, OTS The current Commander of the Holm Center (Holm Ctr/CC) is Brigadier General Houston R. Cantwell, USAF[2] and the current Commandant of OTS (OTS/CMDT) is Colonel Keolani W. Bailey, USAF. Welcome to Officer Training School! They often enter at an advanced rank, such as first lieutenant (O-2) and sometimes as captain (O-3) in compensation for their higher levels of education, and in some cases, experience. If need be, one of the chaplains can help provide or facilitate your request. The final phase of Officer Training School prepares you to make the transition from training environments to the operational Air Force. With the establishment of OTS, Air Force OCS closed its doors and conducted its last graduation in June 1963. Scheduling a MEPS examination is available through an Air Force recruiter. The Air Force selection boards conduct reviews every February and August. It runs for eight weeks at Maxwell Air Force Base near Montgomery, AL. OTS applicants will be given an opportunity to apply for Air Force career fields that correspond with the applicants' expertise and/or desires and will be interviewed by active duty Air Force officers as well as receive a military medical examination for flying or non-flying duty as appropriate. On 1 July 1993, Air Training Command (ATC) merged with Air University (AU) to form the new Air Education and Training Command (AETC), with Air University becoming a direct reporting unit (DRU) under AETC. When you graduate from OTS you will leave Maxwell Air Force Base equipped with the right tools and the knowledge necessary to be an effective and professional leader in our Air Force.