Air Force?

Question

I am currently an e-5 in the coast guard and have been in for 2 1/2 years. I was thinking about joining the air force because of the rates they have. I am interested in air traffic controller, and how is the advancement in the air force? i am an Operations specilaist in the cg, give me opinions on the af. thanks in advance. Mike

I am not sure that the job I am doing right now will get me a good job out of it, I like the CG alot. But I am thinking about my future, and the air force has an air traffic controller rate.

Answer 1

The Air Force is looking to get rid of 40,000 people over the next three years. The workload on those that remain behind will be insane.

I'd stay coast guard. Why are you looking to leave the CG?

Answer 2

I think the Air Force would be an excellent choice. I have a friend who is active duty, and fairly new to it. I do know that first hand, I know a SSgt who is separating from being, I believe 8-10 yrs active duty and he did air traffic controlling. He said it would very difficult to get an air traffic controller job outside because of the age dilemma. Unfortunately, in this career type in the civilian world, there is age discrimination. I don't know if statistics show they get burnt out or they don't do as well or what. I know it's ridiculous. But, he tried and instead got a job working on a railroad doing some operative position, it's great pay, so he's happy. But, it sounds like you want to make this a career, so it shouldn't be too much of a problem. You shouldn't be at risk for that 40,000 though, it's for first term airmen MOSTLY. The advancement is mostly fair, because most of it rests on your shoulders. Tests, awards, TIG, TIS, and eprs and such. No board to have the final say, it's ultimately up to you. Air Force is an excellent choice, they take care of their people providing the best quality of life they can afford. They have shorter deployments (most of the time). There are many great benefits, but serving your country is general is a great thing. Thanks for serving! I believe if you would like to transfer over to the Air Force, you will have no regrets!

Answer 3

The Air Force is currently not accepting any Prior service candidates.

BTW.. the Army and Navy also have Air Trafffic controllers. Heck, I thinkt he Marines do, too, but

first the CG would have to let you go (Unless you are at or near your EAOS) and then the other branch would be willing to take prior service AND be willing to allow you to come in as an AC(Navy term). if any of the branches don't have a huge pressing need for Air Traffci Controllers, the chances of you being able to choose that job are slim.

in fact, the Navy might make you stay an OS.

Answer 4

Congrats on making E-5 in only 2 1/2 years, that wouldn't be possible in the USAF. The AF certainly has an advantage over the coast guard with the number of possible assignments (especially overseas), but you shouldn't come in because of making rank quickly. If you are able to get the job you want, go for it - don't worry about the different culture, you'll pick it up pretty quickly.

Answer 5

Aloha from Down Unda!

Your question begs me to point out, 'The grass is always greener...'!
I've spent 12 years in the US Army & enjoyed the rewards which come from active duty. Count your blessings & your future will be just fine! The opportunities for promotion in the CoastGuard are every bit as available as any other branch of service & you won't need to readjust to another entire set of service rules & regulations. You would feel the significant differences of enviroment & even the jargon. Of course there's always the chance that you would excell in the Air Force but you could also find yourself 'stigmatized' by the service switch. ATC is a stressful undertaking & my experiences with Tactical Close Air Support & Field Artillery Fire Direction Control/Forward Observer lead me to curtail my military career! The insights learned were helpful to keep a keen perspective of the value of job satisfaction verses ambition. It's much more suitable for my personality to enjoy life without continuing to endure such emmense responsibilities. Money & promotions don't necessarily equal security or satisfaction.

Formula One Grand Prix Suzuka Countdown 42 hours tick tick tick Go Michael! Go!

K-den, M1/NSWMoke aka mikewonaus ;-]

Answer 6

Active duty Air force advance pretty slowly, you will probably have to lose a stripe, but if you can get the (AFSC) Air Force Specialty Code guaranteed do it.