Education key for future Air Force

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Throughout the years, the mission of the Air Force has evolved to meet the changing needs of our nation. Alongside technological advances, new aircraft and weapon systems are Airmen dedicated to mastering their craft and ensuring the mission is accomplished.

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Moore, 28th Logistics Readiness Squadron inspection supervisor, said self-improvement is why he continues to further his education.

"I'm grateful for the opportunities I have and what I've accomplished so far," said Moore. "I know there's always more to achieve, so I always strive to better myself."

To help Airmen improve themselves, the Air Force focuses on providing education through a variety of programs, including on-the-job-training, the Community College of the Air Force and career development courses, all of which are geared to better prepare Airmen to perform their duties and be able to take on more responsibilities.

Established April 1, 1972, the CCAF is a federally-charted, degree-granting institution that offers enlisted Airmen the opportunity to earn an associates degree in an applied science or professional certification certificate in one of several fields of study.

Larry Dempsey, 28th Force Support Squadron civilian force development specialist who provides career, academic and force development advice to Ellsworth Airmen and civilians, stressed the importance of continued education to a group of Airmen during an initial education briefing July 25.

"It's important for our Airmen to utilize every opportunity to become better educated," said Dempsey. "We ask a lot from our Airmen, and the better educated they are, the better they'll be able to meet the challenges they face each day."

Dempsey spoke about the long term benefits Airmen can receive by earning a CCAF degree, adding that with the Tuition Assistance program, Airmen can earn an education at a minimal cost.

"The CCAF is an opportunity only available to enlisted Airmen," Dempsey said. "It's something that is theirs and will go with them, no matter where their career path leads them. A CCAF degree can also show a current or future employer the drive and ambition an Airman has to achieve more."

Moore, who is a husband and father of four children, said he plans on tackling a bachelors degree in logistics and materials management after he completes his CCAF.

"At some point everyone serving in the Air Force will get out," Moore said. "Your education level is a big deciding factor in how well you will live outside the Air Force. The more education I have, the more possibilities I'll have, and the better prepared I'll be when I separate."

The CCAF partners with more than 90 affiliated AF schools and 82 education service offices located worldwide to serve more than 320,000 active-duty, guard and reserve enlisted personnel, making CCAF the world's largest community college.

The CCAF has awarded more than 335,000 associate in applied science degrees. Every year Airmen complete more than 1.5 million semester hours through CCAF affiliated schools.

For more information about the CCAF, call the base Education Office at (605) 385-2312.