Working toward number one Published Sept. 25, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Jarad A. Denton 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE, S.D. -- In an effort to stay ahead of the educational power curve, Ellsworth leadership encourages Airmen to further their education with the help of services provided by the Base Education and Training Center. Airmen can use the center as a resource for obtaining a degree or certification, taking college level tests, learning more about educational opportunities the military offers or discovering what school is right for them. "We want Airmen to take full advantage of the educational opportunities the Air Force offers them," said Chief Master Sgt. Clifton G. Cole, 28th Bomb Wing command chief. "Having an education beyond a high school diploma will help Airmen in whatever career they choose to pursue." Airmen are presented these opportunities upon swearing into the Delayed Enlistment Program, when they are enrolled into the Community College of the Air Force. Once enrolled, they have the opportunity to earn credits toward a degree in applied science with a concentration in their career field. In addition to CCAF, Airmen can also pursue credits toward a bachelors or masters degree from accredited colleges in whatever major or concentration they choose. These credits are paid for through the 100 percent tuition assistance program offered by the Air Force to all active duty members. The only limitation to TA is the amount per year Airmen can use. The current limitation is no more than $4,500 a year and no more than $250 per semester hour. For Airmen seeking assistance with their TA, the Base Education and Training Center can assist Airmen in applying for TA. "We can lead Airmen down the path of getting a degree," said Paula Howard, 28th Force Support Squadron chief of base training and education services. "Often we will have Airmen come in with questions about a school or degree plan. We have a lot of information on hand to assist them with their educational needs." Ms. Howard said she has tried to make the Base Education and Training Center a "one-stop shop," with an emphasis on customer service, for Airman looking to further their education. "If we don't give good customer service to our Airmen then they may not use the education center," said Ms. Howard. "We are here to support the mission by giving Airmen the resources they need to become well-trained, educated and professional noncommissioned officers." The Base Education and Training Center also offers other educational avenues for Airmen. The Post 9/11 GI Bill, which went into effect for all active duty military members Aug. 1, was highlighted in a recent speech by President Barack Obama at Hudson Valley Community College. "We've also passed a new GI Bill of Rights to help soldiers home from Iraq and Afghanistan begin a new life in a new economy," President Obama said. The Post 9/11 GI Bill replaced the Montgomery GI Bill as the primary education benefit program. Under the new GI Bill, Airmen can transfer benefits to their spouse or children. Airmen may also be eligible to receive entitlements toward tuition, fees, monthly housing, yearly books and relocation expenses based on their length of active duty service. The new GI Bill is just one of the options Airmen can use when pursuing their educational goals. College Level Examination Program and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support tests are available for Airmen who are looking to earn college credits by taking an exam on information they may have learned through independent study, prior course work, on-the-job training, internships or professional development. The Department of Defense offers free CLEP and DANTES tests to military personnel. With options such as the new GI Bill, TA and free CLEP and DANTES tests, Airmen can take their education as far as they want and pave the way for a life of success. And with the resources and staff of the Base Education and Training Center ready to assist Airmen in their goals, Ellsworth is able to rise to challenge of developing highly skilled and educated professionals, ready to take on any task and accomplish any mission. For more information on educational opportunities for Airmen, contact the Base Education and Training Center at (605) 385-2312.