TECHNICAL SERGEANT

Noncommissioned Officers: The “backbone” of the United States Air Force. This tier focuses on training, supervision, and task execution and consists of Staff Sergeant (SSgt) and Technical Sergeant (TSgt). NCOs lead by example as role models to all and ensure proper use of resources within their control. They become proficient and internalize the Airman Leadership Qualities and progress toward intermediate and advanced foundational competency levels.  Additionally, they continue their development through Enlisted Professional Military Education and career-broadening positions, as they begin building a strong network within and outside their organizations. As Noncommissioned Officer's progress in this tier, the focus will be on establishing proficiency.

• Technical Sergeant. Further development by striving to be the technical expert while providing excellent attention to detail, establishing effective communication, and fostering a positive culture of trust within the organization. 

NCO Responsibilities (The Brown Book,, pages 15-16):   

• Developing Self

• Developing Others

• Developing Ideas

• Developing Organizations

Development Path:

• Complete First Line Supervisor's Course (1LSC) - signup via ARCNet

• Complete NCO Academy - distance learning or in-residence (Form 7, stratified in Wing)

• Complete Air Force Training Course (AFTC) - signup via ARCNet

• Civilian College Courses, CLEPs/DSSTs - work toward CCAF or Associates Degree

• Complete SEJPME I

• Complete Defense Support of Civil Agencies (DSCA) Phase I

• Apply for National Defense University Gateway Course 

• Apply for Innovation Education Opportunities (ARCWERX)

Develop Leadership and Supervisory Skills

• NCOIC, Project Officer, Additional Duty First Sergeant

• Deployment (if the opportunity exists)

• Supervise and/or mentor at least one Airman

• Volunteer for Additional Duties to learn new skills

• Attend a mock board and request feedback

• Panel member for mock board

• Guide your Airmen through and support their Individual Development Plan

Documents to Review:

• The Brown Book - Enlisted Force Structure 

• The Blue Book - The Profession of Arms, Our Core Values

• The Blueprint - Roadmap to Enlisted Force Development

• The Purple Book - The Joint Team

Learn About Arizona Leadership, Mission, History, and State Partnership Program (SPP):

• AZ National Guard Leadership, Mission and Wings

• AZ State Partnership Program

Key Air Force Systems to Know: 

• Go to Key Air Force Sites

Promote Organizational Culture:

• Active Participation in the squadron, group, wing, and community (morale committee, booster club, Rising 6, etc.)

• Professional Organizations: AF Sergeants Association (AFSA), EANGUS, etc.

• Professionalism, Attitude, Work Ethic, Camaraderie Maintain Mission Readiness: fitness assessment, medical and dental, mobility, AFSC Upgrade Training