What Happens After Air Force Boot Camp?
Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT), also known as boot camp. This is a significant milestone in your journey as an Air Force recruit. But what happens next?
Technical Training
Contents
Technical Training Basics
Technical training is the next phase of your Air Force journey. This is where you’ll learn the specific skills and job duties required for your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). There are over 1,300 different MOSs in the Air Force, so it’s essential to understand the basics.
Types of Technical Training
- Classroom Training: A significant portion of your training will take place in a classroom setting. You’ll learn theoretical concepts, review materials, and participate in discussions.
- Hands-on Training: You’ll also engage in hands-on training, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a practical setting. This may include simulations, drills, or actual performance of job tasks.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): In some cases, you’ll receive OJT, where you’ll learn by working alongside experienced technicians.
Technical Training Timeframe
- Approximate Duration: Technical training typically lasts between 7-20 weeks, depending on your MOS.
- Training Locations: Some technical training is conducted on-base, while others are held at separate training locations.
Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)
Understanding Your MOS
Your MOS is a critical component of your Air Force service. It defines your specific job duties and responsibilities.
How to Find Your MOS
- AIR FORCE CLASSIFICATION: Visit the Air Force Classification Office (AFCO) website to determine your Classification Score (CS). Your CS will guide you in selecting your top three preferences for Military Occupational Specialties.
- MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY (MOS) GUIDE: Consult the Air Force’s MOS Guide to learn more about available MOSs and their descriptions.
Top 5 Most Popular Air Force MOSs
| Rank | MOS | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | 1A8X1 – Aerospace Medical Service Technician | Provides medical care to personnel and their families. |
| 2. | 3D1X1 – Aircraft Armament System Technician | Installs, inspects, and maintains aircraft armament systems. |
| 3. | 1C131 – Communications-Electronics Life Support Systems Technician | Installs, inspects, and maintains communication equipment. |
| 4. | 2T2X1 – Combat Control Team | Conducts air traffic control, operations, and security. |
| 5. | 1B4X1 – Cyberspace Operations Apprentice | Supports air operations through cyber operations and network defense. |
Job Shadowing and Rotations
Job Shadowing and Rotations
As you progress through your technical training, you may have the opportunity to participate in job shadowing and rotations.
Job Shadowing
- Benefits: Job shadowing provides hands-on experience, exposing you to various aspects of your MOS.
- Types: You may participate in shadowing activities, workshops, or projects.
Rotations
- Benefits: Rotations help you gain a deeper understanding of your MOS and how it contributes to the bigger picture.
- Types: You may participate in unit rotations, where you work alongside experienced personnel, or in simulations, where you practice your skills in a controlled environment.
Service Training
Service Training and Integration**
As you transition from BMT to technical training, you’ll also receive Service Training.
**Service Training Objectives**
* **Core Values**: Emphasis on core values, including Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence In All We Do.
* **Leadership**: Opportunities to develop leadership skills, including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
* **Fitness and Wellness**: Instruction on physical fitness, health, and wellness.
**Service Training Components**
| **Component** | **Description** |
| — | — |
| Core Values | Focus on upholding Air Force core values. |
| Leadership Lab | Develop leadership skills through team-building exercises. |
| Fitness and Wellness | Learn about physical fitness and health. |
| Small Group Instructor Training | Engage in group instruction to develop teaching skills. |
| Team-Building Exercises | Participate in activities designed to foster camaraderie. |
**Final Thoughts**
Congratulations! You’ve made it past Air Force boot camp, and now you’re entering the world of technical training. Remember to stay focused, adapt to new experiences, and prioritize your health and well-being. By doing so, you’ll set yourself up for success in your Air Force career.
**Key Takeaways**
* Technical training lasts between 7-20 weeks, depending on your MOS.
* Your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) defines your job duties and responsibilities.
* Job shadowing and rotations provide hands-on experience and deeper understanding of your MOS.
* Service training focuses on core values, leadership, fitness, and wellness.
* Prioritize your health and well-being to excel in your Air Force career.
