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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

NextGen Aerospace Professionals

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Haynie
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The Mississippi Civil Air Patrol experienced drastic declines in cadet attendance due to the global COVID-19 pandemic since the beginning of 2019.

Mississippi CAP has named a new commander, U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Mims, retired, who has been on a mission to increase numbers within the units. One strategy is introducing more technological advancements within the squadrons.

Mims hopes that the added innovation will encourage the younger population to become the next generation of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) professionals.

Upon his assumption of command, Mims has traveled to various CAP squadrons around the state of Mississippi to share his plans for the future of the organization post COVID-19. Part of his strategy includes the purchase of unmanned aerial drones so that each CAP Squadron will receive two training drones and one mission drone.

“I recently signed approval for $26,000 to be used to purchase small Unmanned Aircraft Systems,” said Mims. “It is an important learning tool for the cadets to have.”

According to 1st Lt. Corey Goodwin, CAP Golden Triangle Composite Squadron commander, these drones can be very useful in all aspects of search and rescue and can also promote an interest in aviation, aerospace, and related career fields throughout the Golden Triangle Region.

To pilot a small UAS, members of CAP must be at least 16-years-old, however, CAP members age 12 and younger can be observer pilots.

“School Teachers who join CAP as what we call an Aerospace Education Member or AEM have access to the STEM kits through their local CAP Squadrons,” said Goodwin. “To be an AEM a teacher has to submit a CAP Form 13, CAP Aerospace Education Membership Application, and a one-time fee of $35 through their local CAP Squadron.”

CAP provides about 20 STEM kits which are distributed amongst all squadrons in Mississippi. Currently the Golden Triangle Composite Squadron utilizes an aircraft simulator and robotic arm for their STEM learning.

CAP uses these kits as one strategy to promote STEM-related careers through hands on activities.

According to the Civil Air Patrol official website, the real goal of this program is to help collaborate a more comprehensive understanding of the aerospace and related career fields for a cadet or senior member, and opens new vistas for them.

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.