Are There Warrant Officers in the Air Force?
The United States Air Force (USAF) has a unique ranking system that differs from the other branches of the US military. While the Navy, Army, and Marine Corps all have warrant officer commissions, the Air Force does not. However, this does not mean that the Air Force does not have a similar type of non-commissioned officer (NCO) that fills a similar role. In this article, we will explore the Air Force’s equivalent to warrant officers, their roles, and the requirements to become one.
What are Warrant Officers?
Warrant officers are highly specialized technical experts who have demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge in a particular field. They are commissioned officers who are not command-level officers but instead focus on providing expert advice and guidance to commanders. Warrant officers are appointed by warrant, which is a specific commissioning process, rather than being commissioned through officer candidate school (OCS) or the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).
Do Air Force Officers Have an Equivalent to Warrant Officers?
While the Air Force does not have warrant officer commissions, it has developed its own system of NCOs that perform similar functions. These NCOs are known as Technical Sergeants (TSGs).
Technical Sergeants (TSGs)
Technical Sergeants are highly skilled and experienced NCOs who have a strong technical background in a specific field. They are appointed as technical sergeants after a rigorous selection process, which includes a board evaluation, physical fitness test, and background check.
Here are some key characteristics of TSGs:
• Specialized knowledge: TSGs have deep technical knowledge in their field and are experts in their specific area of expertise.
• Leadership role: TSGs often lead teams of Airmen and provide guidance and direction to junior personnel.
• Technical expertise: TSGs are responsible for providing technical advice and guidance to commanders and other Airmen.
• Promotion: TSGs are eligible for promotion to Master Sergeant (MSgt) and can be considered for senior NCO positions.
Air Force Roles Equivalent to Warrant Officers
While TSGs are not commissioning officers, they fill roles similar to those of warrant officers. Here are some Air Force roles that are equivalent to warrant officer positions:
| Role | Equivalent to Warrant Officer |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Ground Equipment Technician (AGE) | Naval Avionics Technician |
| Cyber Systems Operations NCO | Cyber Warfare Technician |
| Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) NCO | Cryptologic Technician |
| Aviation Resource Management NCO | Aircraft Maintenance Officer |
| Other specialized fields: Such as nuclear power, electronics, and mechanics, which require specialized training and expertise. |
How to Become an Air Force TSG
To become a Technical Sergeant, you must first become a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt). SMSgt is the senior enlisted rank in the Air Force, and it requires significant experience, leadership skills, and technical expertise.
Here are the steps to become a TSG:
• Meet the basic requirements: You must have a minimum of 11 years of active duty service, a high school diploma, and a score of at least 70 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
• Gain relevant experience: You must have at least 2 years of experience as a Senior Master Sergeant and have demonstrated exceptional technical knowledge and leadership skills.
• Pass the promotion board: You must pass a board evaluation, which includes a written exam, a panel interview, and a background check.
• Attend the Technical Sergeant Academy: If selected, you will attend the TSG Academy, which is a comprehensive training program that prepares you for your new role.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Air Force does not have warrant officer commissions, it has developed its own system of Technical Sergeants that perform similar functions. Technical Sergeants are highly skilled and experienced NCOs who provide technical advice and guidance to commanders and junior personnel. If you are interested in becoming a Technical Sergeant, you must meet the basic requirements, gain relevant experience, pass the promotion board, and attend the TSG Academy. By doing so, you will join a select group of Air Force NCOs who are recognized for their technical expertise and leadership abilities.
