CCAF: The key to success Published June 11, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Janelle Patiño 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- In the Air Force, education is key to our Airmen's future and the success of our mission as they evolve. On top of dedicating their time in mastering their craft and ensuring they accomplish the mission, many Airmen take the time to attend school - whether it's online or traditional classes. Community College of the Air Force is a place for Airmen to have a chance to persue their education. The CCAF offers job-related associate in applied science degrees and other academic credentials. "All enlisted members are automatically enrolled in CCAF upon completions of Basic Military Training," said Rosanne Pruitt, 92nd Force Support Squadron, senior guidance counselor. "CCAF's AAS degrees require 64 semester hours and include Air Force Specialty Code - related training, internship, management and general education requirements." Airmen can view their education records through the Air Force's Virtual Education Center website on the Air Force portal. It allows Airmen to identify what classes they have completed and what they need to take to finish their desired course. "Requirements are met through college coursework or the college examination program," Pruitt said. "Links within their personalized record help Airmen find exactly which courses or exams will fulfill remaining requirements." Airmen can go to school on and off base -- to include online. Classes are available at the Education Center and typically run eight to ten weeks in length. "Most Fairchild Airmen begin with general education courses since it's nearly half of the college degree courses," said Pruitt. "Most classes are held in the evenings twice a week or it could be a 'hybrid' class that meets far less often as it requires students to accomplish course work online." It's important for Airmen to know how to balance work and school activities; and having good time management skills is a must as well. Taking more classes than you can handle can be challenging especially for those who struggle with self-discipline or succumb to procrastination according to Pruitt. "However, we have many Fairchild Airmen successfully taking two classes each term which equates to a full-time course load," she said. "Many of them have families and other outside interests as well as work, but it can be done!" According to Senior Airman Dennis Michael Cracraft, a CCAF graduate, Airmen should go through CCAF and take advantage of the educational benefits. "Going through CCAF, makes me want to pursue my bachelor's degree in information technology," he said. "I would definitely recommend Airmen to finish their education because it's beneficial for you especially through CCAF." The Air Force offers several financial aid options such as the Tuition Assistance, GI Bill, Free Application for Federal Student Aid and several scholarship resources. Tuition Assistance generally covers full tuition for class depending on the school; however, books and fees may be separate. "If Airmen want more information about personal responsibilities associated with using TA, we offer a class every Tuesday from 8 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. at the Education Center," Pruitt said. "Advance sign up is not needed." The Education Center is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information about getting you CCAF degree, call (509) 247-2348 or pay them a visit.