DTF preparing trainees to succeed as the leaders of tomorrow

  • Published
  • By SSgt Adam C. Borgman
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing / Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Florida --  Since its inception at MacDill Air Force Base in May 2012, more than 120 trainees have participated in an Air Force Reserve Command developmental program designed to prepare new reservists to function and excel in Basic Military Training.

Once applicants are accepted into the Air Force Reserve they are automatically entered into the Developmental Training Flight, prior to their departure for BMT. 927th Air Refueling Wing trainees attend monthly Unit Training Assemblies and receive points and pay for their participation.

According the 927th Air Refueling Wing DTF program manager, Tech Sgt. Eivette Icaza, of the 122 trainees who have participated in the program nearly 20% of them have been recognized with an accolade upon graduation from BMT.

Facilitated by Icaza, DTF has an in depth curriculum that includes physical training, customs and courtesies, rank recognition, Airman's Creed, and the Air Force song. All of which are required material to graduate BMT.

According to Icaza, a very small percent of people are fit to serve in the Air Force. This program increases training and screening opportunities aimed at eliminating preventable failures, and weeding out people who are unfit to serve, prior to sending them to BMT or technical training.

"To send someone through training, the estimated cost to the Air Force is about $150,000 per person," said Icaza. "By working with trainees during UTAs we can help set each one up for success, increasing retention, and significantly saving the Air Force money."

Not only does this program benefit the trainees, but it also provides a way for the hand-picked program managers to give back and share their passion for the Air Force.

"I love this job and its purpose, I get to train the future leaders of this wing," said Icaza. "I love the Air Force and to have the opportunity to welcome these young professionals into the Reserves, it truly is an honor."