Evolving Airforce on Employment Opportunities - Essay Example

When analyzing the implications of what Chief Murray talked about it is clear that there will be a reduction in the Air Force’s staff complement by as much as 40 000. It is assumed that the Air Force will implement re-deployment of some of the Airmen, but it must be recognized that there will be jobs lost, which will negatively affect a large number of staff members and their families. When reading the article it became clear to me that each Airman will have to look closely at their prospects within the Air Force.

For the next five years, many Airmen can only be certain of one thing, they will be living with an exceptional level of uncertainty as the Air Force evolve and align itself to its new direction. Many positions and skills will become redundant as new technologies and equipment are phased in, and different knowledge, skills, and experience are needed.  Currently, it is still unclear in which sections staff reduction will take place, or in which areas what type of changes will be implemented. What can be deducted from Chief Murray’s revelation is that in the fields of tactical air control, combat weather and air operations are the areas that will see growth in the Air Force.

Even though the mentioned changes in the Air Force might seem to be rumors, we can accept it as a fact when coming from a prominent figure such as Chief Murray. Many Airmen may want to take a “wait and see” attitude, I believe that it is always better to take the initiative and prepare and equip yourself to meet challenges head-on. This is my suggestion to Air Force staff, to begin with assessing themselves, establishing what their future goals are or should be. A self-assessment that includes looking at the following (Dawn McKay, 2006):
- Values: the things that are important to you, like achievement, status, and autonomy.
- Interests: what you enjoy doing, i.e. playing golf, taking long walks, hanging out with friends.
- Personality: a person's traits, motivational drives, needs, and attitudes.
- Skills: the activities you are good at, such as writing, computer programming, teaching.

Then sit down and decide if you want to stay in the Air Force, and if you do set yourself goals and objectives that will help you gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to fit into those fields that will be expanded in the Air Force.

If you cannot see yourself working in one of those fields, you should start contemplating employment in the civilian sector. According to Richard Piske (2006), this can be one of the hardest choices you will ever make, and you should take your time to research your options so that you’re able to make an educated decision about your next step, which make all the difference in the world. Understanding this you should then do a self-assessment and take stock of your career goals and how you will be able to leverage your experience in the Air Force to secure your ideal job.

In conclusion, I just want to state that there will be change. That is the only thing we can be certain about and if we start planning now, we will be able to meet these changes head-on and still come out on top. By taking control of your destiny you are in control and can decide in what direction you want to go, and by embracing change and equipping yourself adequately, uncertainty and fear will disappear.