The Air Force recently released an exception to policy announcing that effective June 1, First Term Airmen are authorized to apply for retraining into any Air Force Specialty Code that is manned below 90% prior to separation.
Since the Air Force eliminated the 20-month enlisted performance reports for FTAs in 2018, it was difficult to those on a four-year contract to be selected for retraining through the board process. This ETP was published to alleviate that difficulty and provide additional opportunities for Airmen to stay instead of separating.
"Glad to see us make this change as it relates to retraining opportunities for the force," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. "Providing these opportunities for our Airmen helps us keep talent on the bench. While this particular change impacts First Term Airmen, expect to see more initiatives like this as we evolve our policies and talent management to focus on the force of the future and building the Air Force our nation needs."
Additionally, the FTA Retaining Selection Board is no longer required during the retraining application process. This removes the racking-and-stacking retraining application process based off the number of quotas needed to a more streamlined 'first in, first out' process. Phase 1 FTA retraining quotas will be open to all FTAs who will enter their retraining window during Fiscal Year 2024.
Most applications will be approved based on the submitted completed package and if it meets the eligibility criteria outlined in the Air Force Enlisted Classification Directory.
The ETP will be reassessed June 1, 2024, unless it is rescinded earlier.
