Make education your goal for the new year Published Dec. 4, 2009 By Lt. Col. Timothy Dodge 30th Civil Engineer Squadron commander VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- As we anticipate the upcoming holiday season and all its excitement, you may have had a chance to participate in the base tree lighting ceremony which will took place Dec. 3 at Building 11777. It was an occasion upon which we could spend time with family and friends to welcome this special time of year. And, as we approach the holiday season and the New Year, it is a great time to reflect on the past year's accomplishments. One purpose in doing so is to evaluate where you stand and then take the time to set or update your personal and professional goals for the next year and beyond. As part of the "Year of the Air Force Family," personal and professional development is the focus area for the month of December 2009. I both encourage and challenge you to take the time this month to plan for your education. Is this the year you will decide to complete that degree? For the enlisted force, especially those who have completed their first priority, completion of Career Development Courses and attainment of the appropriate proficiency level in your Air Force Specialty, it is imperative you work toward accomplishment of your Community College of the Air Force degree. Whether you are just starting or only have a few classes left, there's no time like the present, especially for those people who can take advantage of 100 percent tuition assistance toward your degree. Do not wait to educationally advance yourself so that you stay ahead of the power curve wherever you plan your goals to take you. The education will be yours forever. Even those who eventually decide to separate, the advantages of a degree or other education puts you ahead of those "on the outside" who have not pursued educational advancement. I've heard industry say a two-year degree may be worth up to $10,000, a four-year degree up to $20,000 and advanced degrees up to $30,000 over those without the level of education. And many times, it may just be that discriminator that allows you to get that special assignment, impress the promotion board or simply get your foot in the door over those who have not shown the initiative to get that degree. As well, most are now fully versed and complying with the requirement for master sergeants to have a CCAF degree in order to get senior rater endorsement, which, of course, is closely tied to promotion. In addition, Professional Military Education is a critical step toward leadership development and ultimately is tied to promotion. Whether attending Airman Leadership School, Noncommissioned Officer Academy or Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, PME is important at each career step. The Air Force expects our airmen and senior NCOs alike to have the leadership training and tools to more effectively deal with today's complex challenges. Also, with the new development that Senior NCO Academy in residence is required for promotion to senior master sergeant, there is an ever obvious push by Air Force leadership to continue to have the best and most trained military force anywhere. For officers, similar effort is required to ensure completion of the appropriate level of PME at the right time and that a master's degree is earned prior to certain gates for promotion. This is what is expected of today's leaders. If not already on your way, use this time as we head into the new year to explore options and come to a decision on meeting education goals. As well, tuition assistance, whether taking a class at the local education center or an on-line degree course, is available to help. For others who have met their goals and Air Force expectations for higher education, you may want to explore additional educational opportunities to further expand your horizons in the new year.