Communications Group launches new IT leadership course

  • Published
  • 96th Communications Group
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 96th Communication Group recently offered a new information technology career development course through the Air Armament Academy. 

The course, held for both Eglin and Hurlburt IT professionals, aimed at aiding the career and leadership development of the IT workforce. 

"This was also an opportunity to educate the workforce about the new Air force Career Ladder for the Communications and Information Career program," said Christopher Echols, 96 CG director of staff and Communications and Information Career Functional.
Mr. Echols provided the participants a preview of the future with the upcoming Cyber Communications Warfighting Command due to stand up in October 2008. 

"It is unknown at this time what specific IT civ jobs series will be needed to support the new command," Mr. Nichols said. " Much of the information regarding the impact to the civilian and contractor workforce is being developed at the Secretary of the Air Force-level. 

Jay Aragon, division chief CI Career Management, Air Force Personnel Center, told the attendees that the best way to get considered for upward mobility is to submit a Transition Civilian Development Plan. 

"The T-CDP provides civilians an opportunity to have their record of experience reviewed by the development team DT which meets bi-annually to make recommendations on PME slots, specialized training for future leadership assignments," Mr. Aragon said. 

The intent of the T-CDP is to shape the civilian workforce by developing the right skills for the right job at the right time. Mr. Aragon stressed the importance of knowing what is and what is not in a career brief and also encouraged everyone to apply for school and special training. 

"Often times there are not many applicants, so those who apply have a much better chance than those that do not." 

Mr. Echols talked about civilians' responsibilities to develop career plans and also to get a mentor to help guide them with their career. 

Mr. Echols will be offering other A3 Career Leadership and Development courses in the future to include the topics: Resume Writing, Interviewing Skills, and Mentoring. The 96 CG will also be developing a Portal to provide easy access to information regarding IT civilian career development.