Sixty education offices around the world will test Community College of the Air Force graduates to see how they compare to graduates from similar civilian institutions. First-time CCAF degree recipients who have not received another post-secondary degree will be contacted by base education offices and asked to take a two-hour, multiple-choice examination that measures proficiency in natural sciences, social sciences, math, English, and humanities, according to officials with Air University at Maxwell AFB, Ala. The testing will help AU fulfill a requirement from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the body that accredits CCAF programs. During a similar survey in 2008, CCAF graduates scored at or above the national average. “If we were a civilian institution, we would be very competitive with other programs around the nation,” said MSgt. Lisa Arnold, CCAF’s institutional effectiveness coordinator. She added, “I think it’s the caliber of our airmen and the Air Force enlisted education.” (Maxwell release by TSgt. Brannen Parrish)
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.