FTAC: Preparing first term Airmen

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Octavius Thompson
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

After U.S Air Force Airmen arrive at their initial duty location, they begin the transition from operating in a structured training regimen taught at Basic Military Training and technical school, to a mission oriented mentality. Before they can perform their duties and dive into the operational side of work, they must attend the First Term Airman Course. The course, which is provided by every installation, is designed to help ease the transition and development of Airmen as they begin their career in the operational U.S. Air Force.

 

As part of this five-day course, the Airmen participate in three hours of team building, a five-hour video series of “What Now Airman” and career development courses that provide enhancing human education, mental entrenchment and educational opportunities.

 

“The course is an orientation for new Airmen that focuses on getting Airmen prepared to be in their units,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Dexter Robinson, 39th Air Base Wing career assistance advisor. “We focus on things to help them become successful and make an impact within their unit by implementing leadership concepts early in their career.”

Although the FTAC mission is to reinforce customs and courtesies, discipline and standards that are covered in BMT and technical school, this is also a time for NCO’s and senior leadership to mentor and provide insight for the new service members.

“I think offering my point-of-view as an NCO and the things that I have learned in my career will help them avoid some of the same conflicts in their career,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Stacilyn Texeira, 39th ABW career development supervisor. “At this level it is very important for them to learn their job and become subject matter experts within their job, because it will open up more opportunities for them.”

 

Along with professional development and mentorship, FTAC acclimates airmen to the base, as well as the Air Force, and highlights benefits available to them.

 

“The briefings and the information were useful,” said U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Travis Durand, 39th Security Forces Squadron member. “My biggest take away from FTAC has been learning what this base, and the Air Force, has to offer.”

Altogether FTAC implements strategies, resources and guidance for Airmen to become successful while they are adjusting at their first duty station. The course is a potential stepping stone to successful careers within the U.S. Air Force.

 

For more information on FTAC, or other career progression opportunities, contact Master Sgt. Robinson at 676-1019.