SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The application window is open for active-duty mobility pilots to pioneer a new Aviator Technical Track program, Air Mobility Command officials announced July 20.
AMC is seeking mobility pilot participants with the right blend of skills, knowledge and abilities to mentor the next generation of aviators. The command aims to retain rated expertise by reducing developmental requirements and non-flying related duties.
"We heard our pilots, we listened, and we’re doing something about it,” said Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, Air Mobility Command commander. “While long-term solutions to build experience are necessary, we cannot wait. This is an immediate effort to keep an initial cadre of our talented pilots flying while offering the stability they’ve been asking for. This is about Air Force leadership listening to the needs of our Airmen and making timely decisions to retain capability, revitalize squadrons, and deliver the right warfighting effects.”
Applications from the mobility air forces will be accepted through Aug. 17. A panel of senior officers is scheduled to convene Aug. 29 to select the command’s first program participants. The selection board will consider applicants using established criteria. Notification of selection is anticipated for mid-September.
"Our pilots have been clear that work-life balance and the quality of their service are concerns for them when they face the choice to separate or continue serving,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Koscheski, Air Force Aircrew Crisis Task Force director. “We already implemented several initiatives to enable pilots to focus on their primary duties, and AMC’s beta test is an effort to determine if we can retain more pilots by offering flexibility in how they serve.”
Selectees are required to maintain all Air Force standards, including health and fitness, and readiness requirements. Participants will also compete for promotion while participating in the program.
"Longer assignments coupled with continuous placement in active flying positions offers a more predictable lifestyle and an opportunity to primarily focus on flying skills for those wishing to participate,” said Maj. Gen. Sam C. Barrett, Air Mobility Command Director of Operations, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration.”
Participant feedback will be used to inform a full-scale implementation of the technical track concept across the Air Force.
“This initial cadre of pioneers will influence the future designs of an aviation-focused career and will have the opportunity to shape the program for potential broader implementation in the future,” Everhart said. “We must fully leverage the expertise and talents of our aviators to ensure a lethal mobility force.”
Detailed application procedures and eligibility requirements will be available at myPers.af.mil.