To accelerate Air Force aircrew diversity efforts and safely meet accession demands during the ongoing study, critical flying CEA carrier fields and applicable aircraft were surveyed at the request of Air Education and Training Command leadership. Based on preliminary data, interim height standards have been established for specific CEA Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs), and are effective immediately. (U.S. Air Force graphic / Master Sgt. Caitlin Jones Martin)

Recognizing the value of having and developing agile thinkers at all levels of the Air Force who have diverse backgrounds and experiences, Air Education and Training Command leaders have taken deliberate actions focused on diversity and inclusion for both recruits and current Airmen and Guardians. At 19th Air Force, several initiatives have been undertaken to identify and eliminate structural bias undergraduate flying training pipeline processes and syllabi in order to better foster an environment of dignity, respect, mentorship and inclusion through improved dialogue, training and professional development.

AFRS’ Detachment 1 was activated in October 2018 and develops innovative programs in support of the service’s Total Force (active-duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve) recruiting efforts. Members of the detachment focus on pre-accession audiences (youths, young adults and their influencers) and work with partners to provide pathways to accession sources like The U.S. Air Force Academy, ROTC and Officer Training School.

As part of the Air Force's efforts to provide early exposure to aviation to raise awareness of potential opportunities to serve among diverse youth, the Air Force Recruiting Service and AFRS Det.1 active-duty Aviation Inspiration Mentors facilitate programs like Pathway to Wings and Aim High Flight Academies. Additional programs are run through Air University's Headquarters Reserve Officer Training Corps and Junior ROTC programs, including scholarships and a flight academy.

Rated Diversity Improvement Strategy is the Air Force’s flight plan to strengthen diversity within rated career fields through three overarching goals: Attract and recruit the best talent from diverse backgrounds to cultivate a high performing and innovative Air Force reflective of the best of our nation. Develop and retain the Air Force’s best rated aircrew by harnessing diversity as a force-multiplier and fostering a culture of inclusion. Optimize diversity advancement efforts by leveraging data driven approaches.