CCAF mentoring to reach Airmen

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Marcy Copeland
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Thunderbolts working toward earning their Community College of the Air Force degree now have another helpful resource--a wingman.

The Luke Air Force Base education office now offers a CCAF mentorship program. Thunderbolts who have received their CCAF can now be trained how to offer assistance to those who want to pursue their CCAF.

"We developed this program to reach Airmen who normally might not have access to come to the education center," said Sandra Cooper, 56th Force Support Squadron education counselor. "Airmen may be a little apprehensive about coming here, or may just need a few questions answered. We just started this program and have trained about 25 mentors so far. It's taking off great and we've had others asking to be mentors."

Earning a CCAF degree can increase chances of promotion or help to qualify an Airman for special duty assignments, as well as applying the degree toward a bachelor's degree. If an Airman chooses to leave the Air Force, the degree is
accepted by most colleges to pursue a higher degree.

For Airmen leaving the Air Force, some entry-level jobs require an associate's degree to be considered and a CCAF can help meet these requirements.
Beginning in January 2016, the education office will be holding training on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Thunderbolts must have a CCAF degree to attend training.

"We have multiple personnel on different shifts as well as different agencies," said Tech. Sgt. Duane Coley, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron production NCO in charge. "This program can accommodate all Airmen despite their shift, rank, age, or Air Force Specialty Code. I want to help my fellow Airmen achieve their CCAF degree early in their careers."

A CCAF degree is great to have for Airmen who are both staying in the Air Force or separating from the military.

If you are interested in becoming a mentor or learning more information, please contact the education center at 623-856-7722.