First Term Airmen Center eases Airmen transition Published June 12, 2009 By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- As Airmen progress through basic and technical training, they are entrusted more to make the right decisions without a military instructor's assistance. The rules and restrictions of each tier of training are scaled back, allowing them a little more freedom each day. When Airmen graduate from each training tier and move on to their first duty assignment, they receive one more two-week training session at the First Term Airmen Center, a course designed to bridge the gap and facilitate a smooth shift into the operational Air Force. The center's curriculum includes briefings on various topics, including safety, financial management and legal services. "[Being in FTAC] helped because it lets you know you're new to the Air Force, you've been taught the standard and you're no longer going to be babysat," said Airman Matthew Hochstein, 36th Civil Engineer Squadron structural apprentice who graduated from the center May 15. "They [informed] us on everything we needed to know about this base and provided many sources for help [to Airmen who may need assistance] through all the briefers who were present." Learning the ins and outs of the base wasn't the only advantage FTAC Airmen gain while participating in the course. The Airmen also have an opportunity to network with Airmen they might not normally see during a typical day on the island. FTAC offers Airmen the opportunity to spend two weeks with others who are new to the Air Force, Airman Hochstein said. It's a great way to make new friends and establish a rapport with fellow Airmen. Andersen's FTAC, led by Staff Sgt. Danielle Mabry, FTAC team leader, and Staff Sgt. Curt Mitchell, noncommissioned officer in charge of FTAC, hosts approximately 20 new Airmen per class. The center reinforces the standards of professionalism, professional development, mentorship, leadership and followership and sets Airmen on the path to become future leaders. "I love this job," Sergeant Mabry said. "I stand behind FTAC 100 percent, because I believe it's important. I think the mentorship we give [to the new Airmen] is great. If you can affect one person in that whole crowd, then you've done your job."