2nd Air Force releases Reclassification of Airmen Policy Published March 23, 2010 By Sherene O'Neill 17th Training Support Squadron GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- In November 2009, Headquarters Air Force published a new policy on classification and reclassification procedures for non-prior service active duty Airmen. The policy objective is to balance the needs of the Air Force as part of force management. In February 2010, Maj. Gen. Mary Kay Hertog, 2nd Air Force commander, issued additional guidance on reclassification. In the past, Airmen who were unsuccessful in their technical training school were often given opportunities to reclassify into different career fields. Many times Airmen were placed in career fields where they were not needed, thus creating manning overages. In order to better manage enlisted initial skills requirements and balance career field needs, the previous reclassification policy will not be continued. Excessive reclassifications contribute to over-production and increase student awaiting training times. The reality for an Airman now is it will be much more difficult to reclassify into another technical training career field. What is the impact to students undergoing training? Airmen must fully understand their responsibility for completing training in their original Air Force Specialty Code. Trainees who fail to meet academic, performance, conduct, bearing, medical, physical or other standards may be separated from the Air Force. It is essential that efforts both in and out of the classroom are focused on successfully completing training. Trainees need to understand the consequences of elimination because reclassification is not an entitlement. Technical training reclassification opportunities will be extremely limited and only Airmen with the highest aptitude, motivation and attitude will be considered. Every effort will be extended by the training squadrons to assist in ensuring each trainee succeeds. Special individualized assistance, wash back and retesting is available to ensure the best trained, combat ready Airmen. Each elimination package will be analyzed on a case-by-case basis to determine if reclassification based on the needs of the Air Force can be supported. Training group commanders are the final line of authority for retention and reclassification recommendations. The new emphasis on reclassification procedures will not result in less rigorous standards required for award of an initial Air Force Specialty. Lastly, General Hertog said it best in her correspondence to 2nd Air Force training bases, "This may be your only opportunity so apply yourself to the fullest."
