Center Prepares New Airmen for Their First Duty Station

Published June 15, 2016
By Myra Saxon
88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The week starts off with "Blues Monday" and an informal uniform inspection at 7:30 a.m. - sharp. The First Term Airman Center mentor, along with Master Sgt. Sandrine Hanley, FTAC Non-commissioned Officer-In-Charge, inspect the Airmen from head-to-toe to ensure their uniforms are compliant with the Air Force Dress and Appearance guidelines.

"We are setting them up for success," said Hanley. "I tell each of them, if you make a mistake with adhering to standards, let it be during this week."

FTAC is a mandatory five-day course for first duty station Airmen who are new to the Air Force, to assist with transitioning from a training mindset to a mission-oriented environment. For many Airmen, it is their first assignment in the operational Air Force and their first time away from home.

"They've been through basic military training and tech school, and now they are in a position to work in an operational capacity, learn their jobs, focus on career development courses and the overall mission" said Hanley. "They're scared and nervous with a kaleidoscope of emotions, resulting from a new journey with so many unknowns. In FTAC they are in an environment where they are amongst other Airmen with similar experiences. They're able to construct lasting relationships and are exposed to organizations on the base that assist with their transition."

The schedule throughout the week includes briefings from wing leadership, the Assault Response Coordinator, Airman & Family Readiness Center, Resiliency Trainer, First Sergeants, and personal financial management office.

Other scheduled activities include physical fitness training, team building exercises, a tour of the base and breakfast with the Chiefs group. During the breakfast, the 88th Air Base Wing Command Chief, Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Arnold, along with other senior leaders, provide mentorship, support and encourage the embodiment of the Airman Concept.

As a first this year, representatives from the Better Business Bureau coach the Airmen on the car buying process. They explore in detail the options of buying versus leasing, and interest rates to avoid.

Each Airman is educated on how to review their leave and earnings statements. They are provided with a line-by-line explanation of the LES to learn a better understanding of how their pay checks are broken down.

Hanley, who is dual-hatted as the Base Career Assistant Advisor, also teaches them about the Below-the-Zone promotion process and career progression.

"They need to know they are the Air Force's most valued assets," said Hanley. "It's important to know that their leadership and the Wright-Patt community are here to support them as they progress forward with their career. FTAC is the foundation for them building connections and knowing what resources are available for their success."

For more information contact Hanley at 937-522-3788 or email: sandrine.hanley@us.af.mil