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12th Flying Training Wing

The 12th Flying Training Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, develops the next generation of Air Force aviators and enlisted aircrew by providing world-class flying training and education. The wing trains Airmen in the fundamentals of airmanship, instruction and leadership, preparing them for success in operational units across the Air Force. Through undergraduate Combat Systems Officer training, Pilot Instructor Training, Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals, Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot indoctrination, enlisted aviator training, and other specialized programs, the 12th FTW produces skilled, adaptable, and combat-ready professionals capable of meeting the demands of today's complex operating environment while strengthening the future of American airpower.

 

 

12FTW Units

aircraft mechanic, performs maintenance 12th Maintenance Group
12th Maintenance Group
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Photo of an undergaraduate combat systems officer graduation 479th Flying Training Group
479th Flying Training Group
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An Airman inspects an aircraft 12th Operations Group
12th Operations Group
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Articles

Columbus AFB instructor pilots connect with Virginia Tech AFROTC cadets

  • Published
  • By Airman Hannah Bean
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  It’s not everyday cadets are given the opportunity to work closely with U.S. Air Force pilots; however, the Virginia Tech AFROTC Detachment 875 was given the chance when instructor pilots (IP) from the 37th and 48th Flying Training Squadrons visited the university Feb. 8-11.

Nine IPs, five T-6 Texan IIs, a T-1A Jayhawk, aircrew flight equipment personnel and the 14th Medical Group flight surgeon recently returned from a TDY to Roanoke Blacksburg Regional Woodrum Field, Virginia, where they connected with cadets from the Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC program.

The trip was an effort to boost rated career interest, but also added continuation training for Columbus AFB’s IPs. The pilots also helped meet Air Education and Training Command’s vision of “Recruit Next” by recruiting, training, and educating Air Force ROTC cadets on Air Force flying missions, primarily the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training mission.

“This is an opportunity for them to see what the rated career fields are all about,” said Capt. Andrew Barstow, 37th FTS assistant chief of training. “It’s a pretty cool opportunity, not just the nature of it, but the impact as well.”

Barstow also said the experience gives cadets a better realization of what they’re getting into, and will help them make more informed decisions about their future Air Force careers.

Before the pilots began flying, they hosted a social Feb. 8 in the dorms so cadets could get to know the IPs better by asking questions about their experiences and what it’s like to be a pilot.

“Having Columbus Air Force Base come in and having guys who are current instructor pilots now gives relevancy, excitement and motivation,” said Lt. Col. Barry Burton, Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC Det. 875 operations flight commander. “It’s a hands-on actual view of what it’s like from a pilot’s perspective on the lifestyle and experience.”

Burton said cadets get excited and motivated when they’re able to engage with pilots via video-conference, however, “having pilots on the ground takes it to a much higher level.”

To make the most out of their visit, the T-1 IPs were also able to meet with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Det. 605 cadets at Greensboro, North Carolina.

Throughout the weekend, the 28 cadets were briefed on and experienced the capabilities of the T-1 and T-6 aircraft.

“My favorite part of this experience was getting the opportunity to not only fly in the T-6, but get to learn and ask questions from the pilots,” said Olivia Ellis, Virginia Tech Air Force ROTC Det. 875 cadet. “This opportunity made me feel grateful for the opportunities the Air Force offers cadets and I think opportunities like this should be available to more cadets.”

Capt. Max Adler, 41st FTS check pilot, Maj. Scott Meskimen, 14th Operations Group executive officer, and Barstow were part of the IP group and are Virginia Tech alumni. This visit provided an opportunity to return to their alma mater and show new cadets some aspects of a pilot’s life.

“It’s a very amazing experience,” Barstow said. “I’m shaking hands with cadets and I’m walking through the same hallways I did as an ROTC cadet. It’s kind of surreal when I think about it. We got so much support to help us make it happen, so I’m really appreciative and excited. I feel like I’m giving back to the guys that help me get to this position here.”

Public Affairs Information

Tours of the 12th Flying Training Wing are provided to various community organizations, high schools, businesses, and academic military recruitment programs to educate their members about the 12th FTW mission.

Due to the high volume of requests and limited public affairs resources, tours and static displays are limited.

Please submit all requests in writing to the 12th FTW Public Affairs by email to 12ftw.pa.1@us.af.mil at least three weeks but no more than six weeks in advance. You may also call 210-652-1272.

Tours are not available on weekends and may be cancelled at any time because of increased security measures or mission requirements. The 12th FTW does not host tours of Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph at-large. To schedule a tour of JBSA-Randolph, please contact JBSA-Randolph Public Affairs at 502abw.pa.official@us.af.mil or dial 210-652-4410.

If desired, requestors must arrange all meals. PA will provide contact information to base eateries. Modified tours will be granted for those with limited mobility - this must be stated on the tour request. If not stated, it is assumed that mobility is not an issue.