Kirtland AFB to set record number of CCAF graduates in May

  • Published
  • By Danny Monahan
  • 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Kirtland AFB, N.M. --  In May, Kirtland Air Force Base is slated to graduate a record number of Airmen from the Community College of the Air Force.

"This year, we have 192 graduates, and we may have more, if a few Airmen complete their required coursework in time," said Linda Campbell, The Kirtland Air Force Base Education Center CCAF advisor.

According to Campbell, Team Kirtland had 153 graduates in 2010 and 183 in 2011.

The graduation ceremony and reception for the CCAF classes of October 2011 and April 2012 will begin at 2 p.m. May 10, at the Mountain View Club.

CCAF offers job-related associate in applied science degrees and other academic credentials that enhance mission readiness, contribute to recruiting, assist in retention and support the career transitions of enlisted Airmen.

In 2011, Air Force Materiel Command launched the "Year of the Community College of the Air Force" to increase the number of CCAF graduates on AFMC bases by 10 percent over the 2010 baseline. In response, Team Kirtland recruited and trained 30 volunteers to serve as CCAF mentors in the units.

"As a result of YoCCAF, the number of grads has increased by 25 percent since 2010. Mentors contacted Airmen on a regular basis, providing information, advice, support and encouragement. Through the efforts of these 30, led by CCAF 'Secretary of Education' Master Sgt. Bruce Mimms, the mentoring has been a complete success," Campbell said.

AFMC continues to emphasize learning, as it named 2012 the "Year of Continuing Education."

"This phase of the CCAF initiative takes us to the next level. YoCE encourages the completion of a bachelor's degree, master's degree and/or professional certification, with mentoring still the key. Both the YoCCAF and YoCE programs are team efforts with focused and effective members. This powerful team exceeded the initial goal of 10 percent more graduates, with major growth in 2011 and 2012," said Campbell.

2012 marks the 40th anniversary of CCAF, established April 1, 1972, at Randolph AFB, Texas.

For more information, call the Education Center at 846-8955/9933.