Commissioning program expands - Airman Education and Commissioning Program - Brief Article

Airman, March, 2001

MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AETCNS) - The Airman Education and Commissioning Program expanded both the number of authorized training slots for the program and the number of academic majors eligible for consideration.

The number of manpower authorizations for the program will increase from 90 to 180 through fiscal 2004. Currently the program graduates around 30 airmen each year and selects another 30 to begin the program. Starting with next month's board, Air Force ROTC will begin selecting about 60 candidates per board. Selectees will begin the program the following fall academic term.

The other major improvement to the program is the expansion of eligible majors. Previously, the program was limited to students majoring in electrical engineering, computer engineering, meteorology, nursing, foreign languages and foreign area studies. Now students majoring in computer science, mathematics, physics, and any Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology-accredited engineering program are also eligible.

Airmen selected for the Airman Education and Commissioning Program remain on active duty and are administratively assigned to the ROTC detachment at the college or university where they attend school. They receive full active-duty pay and benefits while in the program and attend Officer Training School upon graduation.

Applicants must have completed at least one year of transferable college credit and meet the requirements and prerequisites. Interested students should see their base education services office for more details on how to apply.