OUR TRAINING PROGRAMS ARM YOU WITH ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS YOU CAN CARRY INTO THE FUTURE: MOMENTUM

There's no better way to learn from experience than from experience itself. That’s the operating principle behind the PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ), COPPER CAP (COP), Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP), and Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) programs for recent college graduates. Each program partners you with AFCS professionals from within your chosen occupation for an immersive training program designed to equip you with the specialized expertise and competence for your future. Not only are our positions paid and full-time, but each program also features hands-on, on-the-job training, scheduled raises, and even paid post-graduate studies. Further, upon successful completion of the program, you may be eligible for a permanent position at AFCS with full federal benefits, as well as student loan repayment and attractive hiring bonuses for those who qualify.

PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ)

PAQ is a paid, full-time, two to three-year training program for graduates interested in Science and Engineering, Financial Management, Cyber/IT, Civil Engineering, Intel, and more. Your training includes promotions and yearly salary increases based on performance and supervisor approval. Upon successful completion of the training plan, you'll be offered a permanent position at AFCS, making it the perfect vehicle to launch the career you've worked so hard for.

If you've graduated with a bachelor's or master's within the last two years, you may be eligible to enroll in AFCS's PAQ or COP Programs. Those with a master's or bachelor's degree and real-world experience may qualify for higher-level opportunities.

COPPER CAP (COP)

COP is the Air Force Civilian Service’s comprehensive training program for developing Contract Specialists for permanent positions at AFCS. It provides you with immersive on-the-job training, working alongside AFCS and military Contracting Officers who will train you in every aspect of contract management, including market research, requirements definition, solicitation preparation, price justification, negotiation and award, and administration of contracts. You’ll work at the heart of the complex process of supplying and sustaining the Air Force and Space Force with everything from satellites, electronics, and high-performance aircraft to supplies and services necessary for the day-to-day operation of military installations around the world.

CAREER FIELDS

PRESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT FELLOWS (PMF)

The PMF Program is a flagship leadership development program at the entry level for advanced degree candidates. It was created more than three decades ago by Executive Order and has gone through many changes over the years. The program attracts and selects the best candidates possible, but is really designed with a narrower focus — developing a cadre of potential government leaders. It provides some sustenance during the first years of employment and encourages the development of leadership capabilities. The PMF Program inculcates a lasting bond as well as a spirit of public service, ultimately encouraging and leading to a career in the government.

The PMF Program is administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Each year, candidates apply to the program in an effort to be selected as Finalists. Finalists are then eligible for appointment as PMFs.

To become a PMF, you must participate in a rigorous, multi-hurdle process. It takes patience and endurance but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your leadership ability and potential. As a PMF, you will have earned your place in the program and the opportunity to grow professionally, serve your country, and make a difference.

THE FUTURE WILL BE HERE BEFORE YOU KNOW IT. THESE TRAINING PROGRAMS PUT YOU IN A POSITION TO MEET IT WHEN IT ARRIVES.

Full Tuition | Annual Stipend | Summer Internships | Health Insurance Miscellaneous Allowance | Experienced Mentor | Employment at DoD Facility

WORKFORCE RECRUITMENT PROGRAM (WRP)

You won’t find a greater champion of persons with disabilities than AFCS.
Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP) is a federal program connecting employers with qualified candidates with disabilities for temporary employment and potentially permanent positions. The program provides invaluable federal work experience to those who qualify, offering the potential of securing permanent positions upon completion of the program.

The Air Force and Space Force seeks to build upon the strengths and abilities of all individuals to create a workforce that’s capable and passionate about public service. Which is why we’ve partnered with the Department of Labor and the Department of Defense to implement the WRP. The WRP's goal is to recruit, train, and retain persons with disabilities in the federal workforce.

If you’re a student or recent graduate with a disability, you know better than most just how much you have to contribute — if only given the chance. You’ll be encouraged to know that you’re not alone in your determination to overcome challenges. The Air Force Civilian Service shares your commitment to ensuring that disability is never a barrier to success.

ELIGIBILITY

• Your college or university must be participating in the WRP program. If your school has not yet enrolled to be a WRP provider, encourage your school’s career center to register.

• Must be a current student or have graduated within two years from a participating college or university.

• Proof of disability/Schedule A Memorandum. An example of which can be found here.

• Resume and transcript(s) to support experience and education as appropriate.

• Meet the Office of Personnel Management Qualification Standards for the position for which you are applying.

• Ability to perform essential duties of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.

STUDENT REGISTRATION IS THROUGH EACH PARTICIPATING COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY

To participate, contact your school coordinator.