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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

Into the FORGE

  • Published
  • By A1C Jessica Blocher
  • 14th Flying Training Wing
Columbus Air Force Base, MS. --  

Family Organizations Recruiting Great Employees (FORGE) is a coalition of local businesses that have united to introduce school age children early on to skill trades as well as assisting with finding a career field that inspires them. 

“The Air Force is attending the FORGE event to bridge that gap between the Air Force capabilities and how it relates to opportunities for the high school students,” said Tech. Sgt. Kristen Nickerson, 14th Civil Engineering Squadron flight chief bioenvironmental. I hope that my 20 years of experience in the Air Force will encourage these students to know that there are a lot of opportunities available to them especially in the military.” 

Melinda Lowe Executive Director of FORGE explained that she was excited for the relationship between the Air Force Base and FORGE because of all the jobs that are available within the Air Force and trade jobs that are needed on Air Forces Bases to maintain the mission. 

“We want students to know that there are options available to them,” said Lowe. “By having events like this it gives students a hands-on experience that may inspire them on their course-selections or after high school a career in a field where they are very much needed.” 

Lowe’s passion for trade school and students comes from her 29 years as an educator and family history of working in construction.  

“I want students to find their passion, and experience that lightbulb moment whatever that might be,” said Lowe. “It may be skill-trade, it may not be skill-trades, but we want them to know what is available to them.” 

Students had an opportunity to work with bioenvironmental equipment and virtual reality flight simulators as well as several other job experiences at the FORGE career day event. 

“I’m here to talk about the Air Force and what it’s like to be in pilot training,” said Capt. Erin Nistler, SQUADRON T-6 instructor, “I want these students to learn to go fast and take chances.” 

28 schools within 11 counties participated during the two-day career event with approximately 150 volunteers, 20 career coaches and 35 vendors. 

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.