The image many people have of the US Air Force is one of valiant pilots using high-tech aircraft to protect the US in times of war and to enforce peacekeeping duties in times of accord. That's not an inaccurate picture of today's Air Force, but it is a far from complete picture. For every pilot taking to the skies in an space-age jet, there are thousands of people managing every detail that leads to the pilot's takeoff, and these people are working all over the world to keep Air Force bases running smoothly and efficiently.

The Air Force provides a broad range of opportunities, everything from administrative to training to medical to engineering types of careers, with the majority of these going to people who will never need to enter an airplane's cockpit. Many people do not realize the wide variety of skills necessary to manage such a complex operation, and consequently they may be missing out on a worthwhile career path. The Air Force offers positions for service through enlistment or through officer's programs, as well as civilian roles. People looking for work that will allow them to advance in their careers and continue their education would do well to consider opportunities offered by the Air Force, which offers a number of advancement possibilities and continuous training. The Air Force also offers excellent benefits and retirement programs, along with skills that transfer well into the private sector.

While a number of people sign up for the Air Force as a temporary stage in their career path (to help finance further education or to take a break between high school and college), there are many thousands of people who have made work in the Air Force their life's career. The well-defined career roles, strategies for advancement and disciplined environment are appealing to them, and they feel their skills are being used in a highly productive, respected manner.

The Air Force may not be for everyone, and this report will examine both the positive and unattractive features of such a career. But like any other career, you do not have to sign up for a lifetime commitment at the outset, but can take a few years to determine if you and the Air Force are indeed a good long-term partnership. Whatever you decide, you will have gained valuable experience and expertise in your chosen field while learning more about how this organization works overall.

The Air Force is different than the civilian world - there are clearly defined paths to advancement, and the military hierarchy and discipline may not suit everyone. But you may find yourself working with some of the best people in your field with hands-on opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge base. Joining the Air Force may be just what you need to develop a lifetime career in which your ability to succeed is limited only by your willingness to work hard and continue learning. Reading this career guide carefully will give you a broad overview of the opportunities, requirements, and pros and cons of such a career.