The future is wide open Published Nov. 25, 2009 By Brandice J. Armstrong Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- In her cubicle, while fidgeting and typing, Airman 1st Class Ashley Mize, 72nd Force Support Squadron, spoke about her love for the Air Force. Having just celebrated her first anniversary in the service, she has big plans: she wants to go to the U.S. Air Force Academy, through the Leaders Encouraging Airmen Development program, and become an officer. The LEAD program enables enlisted Airmen, who meet certain criteria, to enroll in the academy and attend as full-time cadets. Upon graduation, Airmen will receive a Bachelor of Science degree and be commissioned a second lieutenant. "This is an impressive opportunity for a young Airman who is looking to do great things," said Chief Master Sgt. Eric Harmon, 72nd Air Base Wing Command chief. "If you look at Air Force history, there's something to be said of leaders who have gone through a military academy." Introduced by former Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ronald R. Fogleman in 1995, the program offers direct entry for up to 85 active-duty Airmen and 85 Air Force reservists and Air National Guard members. There are also 50 slots available for the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School, a year-long program. To apply for the program, Airmen must be younger than 23 by July 1 and younger than 22 by July 1 for the preparatory school. They must be unmarried, without dependents and a U.S. citizen, or gain citizenship by the start of school. Additionally, they must be nominated by unit or wing commanders to forego the congressional appointment requirement. Airman Mize said she learned of the LEAD program through a friend who is a cadet at the academy. He encouraged her to apply and after visiting the Colorado Springs, Colo., campus this past summer, she wants to be a part of the program. "I've always seen myself as officer material and I'm really motivated," said Airman Mize, 72nd Force Support Squadron personnel apprentice. "I really love my job and I'm good with people. I like helping people; it's what I want to do." Airman Mize has spoken with Chief Harmon and Col. Allen Jamerson, 72nd ABW and installation commander. She said she is in the process of completing application form 1786. "I know that she will be successful just by the excitement she displayed and how she conducted herself as a young Airman, showing that level of professionalism, confidence and maturity in the discussions we had," Chief Harmon said. "She wasn't intimidated; it told me a lot about her." Airmen wanting to apply for the academy and preparatory school must complete and send the application form Jan. 31.