U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Have you wanted to further your education, but just don't know where to start?
Look no further than the Air Force Academy's Education Center.
The center provides education counseling services and information about off-duty education options for all base personnel.
"The information provided includes, but is not limited to, information about the Community College of the Air Force, tuition assistance, college or university information and contacts, testing options, commissioning programs and certification options," said Susan King, the education and training section chief. "We are also responsible for teaching the Transition Assistance Program Education Track, which is a two-day course for members who are separating or retiring."
During this course, members learn how use the GI Bill and other financial assistance benefits, and apply for college.
With the recent Air Force reduction announcements, the education center is where a lot of Airmen are heading for information and to know what their options are.
"We are seeing an increase in military personnel asking about their education options in regards to courses that they still need to take to obtain their CCAF degree," King said. "We are also receiving more inquiries for tuition assistance, testing and VA benefits. Most indicate they are trying to prepare themselves in case they are separated and they want to take advantage of anything they may qualify for."
According to King, education is important to those preparing to separate or retire for two key reasons: the current job market is tough with more people than jobs available; and an education often gives Airmen over those who do not, and can come with higher pay.
For more information about education benefits and options, go to the education center, located in the base community center, or call 333-3298.
"If Airmen are interested in furthering their education, they should visit our office as soon as possible," King said. "The earlier they know and understand what their options are, the more equipped they will be to make decisions about their education."
