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Graduating to a higher level

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Xavier Lockley
  • 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Air Commandos from Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., received their Community College of the Air Force degrees during a commencement ceremony at the Landing Zone at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., May, 30.

The CCAF is a federally supported, degree-granting institution that serves the United States Air Force's enlisted force. The CCAF provides enlisted Airmen the opportunity to earn an associate degree or a professional certification in one of several fields of study.

"This is just one step in my Air Force career, but it is a great accomplishment," said Airman 1st Class Matthew Marshall, 27th Special Operations Contracting Squadron contract specialist. "Looking back, all of the hard work that I put into earning my degree was worth it."

Airmen who choose to pursue a CCAF degree are automatically enrolled in an academic program related to their respective careers following completion of technical school. In all, there are 65 associate degrees in five broad areas of study: Aircraft and Missile Maintenance, Allied Health, Electronics and Telecommunications, Logistics and Resources, and Public and Support Services.

In order for students to earn their CCAF degree, they must complete 64 semester credit hours in technical requirement, physical education, leadership and military studies, general education and program electives. The courses can be achieved through Air Force-taught, accredited technical courses, transferred credit from civilian college courses, and college-level examinations. There are 99 schools in 37 states, and nine foreign locations affiliated with the CCAF degree program.

"Getting your CCAF degree is important," Marshall said. "It means you are one step closer to receiving a bachelor's degree and makes you much more competitive, especially after retiring from the military. Receiving an education is very important - I would advise all Airmen to finish their CCAF degree."

During the ceremony, 86 Air Commandos joined the more than 400,000 active duty Airmen who have earned their CCAF associate degrees.

"During these trying fiscal times, striving for higher education can help you reach personal goals and set a greater example for others," said Chief Master Sgt. Marvin Neely, 27th Special Operations Medical Group superintendent. "We are the best Air Force in the world because our commanders, down to every enlisted man and woman, make education a priority. Looking out amongst the graduates, I know the Air Force will be in great hands for years to come."

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