An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Innovation

Check out AETC Innovation in action!

How To Submit Ideas

Reach out to your local Air Force base's Spark Cell.

Submit your idea directly into GAIN at https://gain.apps.dso.mil.

About AETC Innovation

Developing a world-class culture of innovation is key to the Air Force sustaining a competitive advantage.  The reason why innovation is so important to AETC, and our Air Force, is that it is about mission effectiveness in the way we train and educate our Airman throughout their careers, enhancing their lethality and readiness by developing them with the needed competencies and skillsets for their follow-on to their operational units, Air Force warfighting requirements, and Joint Force commanders’ needs.

Creative approaches, innovation, resources and execution at the speed of relevance are required to sharpen our competitive edge. The advantage will go to those who create the best technologies and who integrate and field them in creative operational ways that provide military advantages

Through new programs like Pilot Training Next, which is using virtual and augmented reality technology to study how Airmen learn more rapidly, AETC is embracing a culture of innovative thinkers who are emboldened to always look for better ways to complete the mission.

AETC INNOVATION NEWS

  • ATC brings simulations to the dorms

    A new air traffic control tower simulator, called the Max Sim, was installed in Erwin Manor on March 10, 2022.The Max Sim offers advanced visuals and a range of simulation capabilities, allowing customized training lessons, real world aircraft characteristics and speech recognition to give students

  • Air Force selects future aircrew helmet

    The helmet prototype was chosen after Air Combat Command initiated the search for a next-generation helmet to address issues with long-term neck and back injuries, optimize aircraft technology, improve pilot longevity, and provide better fitment to diverse aircrews.

  • 97 MXS wins AETC competition with automated tool tracker

    Members of the 97th Maintenance Squadron participated in the Air Education and Training Command “iChallenge,” winning the $225,000 top prize to further develop software that helps aircraft maintainers keep track of tools found in toolboxes.

  • Innovation continues with Det. 24’s change of command

    Lt. Col. Steve “Tiger” Briones took command of Detachment 24 from Lt. Col. Ryan “Motor” Riley during a change of command ceremony at the Kendrick Club June 10. Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, 19th Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and talked about the ground breaking progress within pilot