Application window open for 2018 nurse, direct enlisted commissioning programs

  • Published
  • By Kat Bailey
  • Air Force’s Personnel Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) --  The Air Force’s Personnel Center will accept applications from active-duty enlisted Airmen for the Nurse Enlisted and Direct Enlisted Commissioning Programs through March 16, 2018, for the April selection boards.

NECP offers the opportunity to earn a baccalaureate degree in nursing at a college or university with an Air Force ROTC detachment or a college or university with a "cross-town agreement." Applicants are required to attend school year-round in a resident-based program for up to 24 consecutive calendar months, to include summer sessions. Airmen selected by the NECP board will start school in fall 2018.

The DECP allows Airmen to commission into the Nurse Corps if they already possess a nursing degree and have passed the National Council Licensure Examination.

“Sustainable success comes from an enduring commitment to a diverse force and inclusive culture,” said Maj. Rebecca Farmer, Nurse Education Fellow at AFPC. “Generations, technologies and labor markets change. It is our responsibility to ensure the Air Force continues to invest in our Airmen and their families and retain our talented Airmen while giving them opportunities to broaden their skill sets.”

To be considered for the NECP or DECP boards, applicants must be U.S. citizens with rank of senior airman or higher and no more than 10 years total active federal service (12 years for DECP) as of April 30, 2018. In addition, Airmen must meet time-on-station and retainability requirements, possess current security clearances, be worldwide qualified and commissioned by age 42.

“This year we have a new process for applications where we ask applicants to send us a two to three minute video through MilSuite with answers to specific questions we’ll send out at the end of January, instead of the essay requirement from previous years,” Farmer said. “The Air Force must support an innovative and agile work environment to maintain a competitive edge and be considered an employer of choice.”

Upon successful completion of their degrees, Airmen who pass the NCLEX and receive their nursing licenses will be commissioned. Both DECP and NECP candidates will then attend Commissioned Officer Training and the Nurse Transition Program, and move to a final assignment location.

For complete application instructions and requirements, visit myPers from a CAC-enabled computer. Select “Active Duty Enlisted” from the dropdown menu and search “NECP” or “DECP.”

For more information about Air Force personnel programs, go to myPers. Individuals who do not have a myPers account can request one by following these instructions.