After initial training, FTAC is the first step toward a bright Air Force career

Published May 28, 2009
By Brandice J. Armstrong
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Nearly 30 Airmen sat in rows behind rectangular tables in the 72nd Force Support Squadron's First Term Airmen Center's classroom. Wearing service dress uniforms, some chatted with their neighbors, while others kept to themselves. It was the first day of their orientation program, and few knew what to expect.

But, that's normal. For most of the Airmen at FTAC, Tinker is their first assignment. Having arrived only a month ago, they are still new to the Air Force and their immediate surroundings.

The center's personnel make it their priority to familiarize incoming enlisted members -- airmen basic to senior airmen -- with Tinker's mission, the wings' missions and the overall culture of the base. During the week-long course, FTAC personnel and guest speakers brief Airmen on topics including financial management, legal guidance, the enlisted force structure and Air Expeditionary Force operations.

"A lot of people have misconceptions that basic training is the Air Force, or tech school is the Air Force, but it's a different world from [major command] to MAJCOM," said Staff Sgt. Eric Mijangos, FTAC team leader. "They're all different."

In addition to in-processing briefings, Airmen also hear presentations from senior leaders and participate in uniform inspections.

"This is a lot more personal and personalized for them than newcomers' [briefings]," said Tech. Sgt. Steven Crowder, FTAC noncommissioned officer in charge.

"Newcomers' is a brief introduction of base operations. Each session here, [averages] one hour and gives Airmen a better understanding of how they affect the overall mission."

After completion, Airmen return to their respective units.

Sergeant Crowder said approximately 30 classes are conducted each year.

Airman 1st Class David Morris of the 552nd ACW said on his first day at FTAC, he had no idea what to expect.

"I was just told to show up," the Airman said.

That day, Airman Morris participated in a uniform inspection, heard several briefings about the basics of the class and listened to Chief Master Sgt. Jennifer Blease, a reservist sitting in for Chief Master Sgt. Phyllis Atkins-Johnson of the 72nd FSS, welcome the Airmen to the installation.

During her 30-minute briefing, the chief encouraged Airmen to take advantage of the opportunities at the base, learn from their senior leaders, be accountable for their actions and remember their roots.

"Accountability starts here, today," the chief said. "Have that managerial courage to ask for and request the things you deserve, don't be ashamed, embarrassed or timid.

"[And,] when you start to move ahead and become that staff sergeant or [technical] sergeant, remember where you came from," Chief Blease said. "Time goes by quickly."

To sign up new Airmen for the FTAC program, go to the FTAC Community of Practice Web site, found on the Tinker main page, under the Base Services tab, and the Education & Training link. For more information, call 736-4959.