What Happens After Air Force BMT?
The Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) is an intense and transformative experience that sets the foundation for a successful military career. Once a new recruit completes their 7-week training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, they’re ready to embark on the next stage of their journey. So, what happens after Air Force BMT?
Graduation and Assignment
Immediately after graduating from BMT, airmen receive their technical training uniform, known as the PT-19 uniform, and their first duty assignment. The assignment is based on their Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), which determines their job role.
Here are some common job roles and their corresponding AFSCs:
| Job Role | AFSC |
|---|---|
| Maintenance Technician | 2W0X1 |
| Avionics Technician | 2A6X4 |
| Cyber Security | 1B4X1 |
| Intelligence Analyst | 1N8X1 |
| Healthcare Specialist | 4N0X1 |
The airman will then attend Technical Training School (TTS) for their specific job, which can range from 4-24 weeks depending on the AFSC. During this time, they’ll learn the technical skills and procedures required to perform their duties.
Technical Training School (TTS)
TTS is an immersive training environment that provides airmen with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen career field. Airmen attend classes, simulations, and hands-on training to learn the technical aspects of their job.
Some TTS programs include:
• Basic Military Engineer (BME): A 6-week course that teaches airmen basic engineering skills, including demolition, breaching, and obstacle removal.
• Basic Aviation Life Support (BALS): A 4-week course that teaches airmen the basics of aircraft operation, safety procedures, and emergency response.
• Network Warfare Officer (NWO): A 10-week course that teaches airmen network security, surveillance, and communication systems.
Initial Job and Responsibilities
After completing TTS, airmen report to their first duty station, where they’ll start their career as an Active Duty Airman. They’ll assume responsibilities specific to their AFSC and perform tasks that contribute to the Air Force’s overall mission.
Here are some responsibilities airmen may assume:
• Maintain and repair aircraft:
- Perform routine maintenance checks
- Troubleshoot and repair systems
- Inspect and test aircraft before flights
• Support flight operations: - Load and unload aircraft with fuel, ammunition, and cargo
- Provide weather support and briefings
- Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions
• Monitor and protect air traffic: - Control air traffic movements and flows
- Detect and track aircraft movement
- Provide surveillance support for military operations
Advanced Training and Professional Development
After completing their initial job, airmen can continue to advance their skills through advanced training and professional development opportunities. This may include:
• Specialized training courses: Airmen can attend specialized courses to gain additional skills and certifications in their AFSC.
• Officer Training: Those who choose to become officers can attend Officer Training School (OTS) for commissioned officer training.
• Master Sergeant/Chief Master Sergeant courses: Airmen who reach senior ranks can attend courses focused on leadership, management, and mentorship.
The Air Force Career Roadmap
The Air Force has a well-defined career roadmap that outlines the different phases and milestones airmen can expect to experience during their careers. This roadmap includes:
• Basic Military Training (BMT): The starting point for all new recruits.
• Technical Training School (TTS): Airmen attend TTS for their specific AFSC.
• First Duty Station: Airmen report to their first duty station and assume responsibilities.
• Career Progression: Airmen can advance through their career, gaining new skills and responsibilities.
• Officer Training: Airmen who choose to become officers attend OTS for commissioned officer training.
• Senior Ranks: Airmen who reach senior ranks can attend specialized courses and mentor other airmen.
In conclusion, what happens after Air Force BMT? The answer is a transformative journey that sets the foundation for a successful military career. Airmen graduate from BMT, attend Technical Training School, and report to their first duty station, where they assume responsibilities specific to their Air Force Specialty Code. Throughout their careers, airmen can continue to advance their skills through advanced training and professional development opportunities. With a clear career roadmap in place, airmen can chart their path and achieve their goals as they serve in the Air Force.
