DVIDS – News – Air Force Unveils New Enlisted Development and Education Policy

The Department of the Air Force released DAFI 36-2685, a new set of instructions focused on enhancing development and education for enlisted service members, Oct. 9, 2024. This instruction provides a structured approach to the professional growth of enlisted U.S. Air Force Personnel, integrating base-level development opportunities with broader Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) goals.

The Vandenberg development center will host new Enlisted Foundations Courses, which will become mandatory by 2026 for active duty and Reserve members, and by 2027 for Air National Guard members. For Space Force Guardians, the policy outlines specific developmental pathways and authorizes the EPME Graduate Ribbon for certain course completions.

“Education is the backbone of military excellence, empowering service members to adapt, innovate, and achieve mission success,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Wade McBride, Airman Leadership School commandant. “DAFI 36-2685 consolidates the pre-requisites that Airman and Guardians need to be aware of before attending PME, providing answers to most of their questions in one location.”

Of those significant requirements, is the ability to pass a fitness assessment and uniform inspection within the first five days of education.

“This is different from years past and shows that the Department of the Air Force requires our warriors to be ready at all times,” McBride said.

The instruction provides clarifications on physical fitness standards such as the two minute hand release push-ups, cross leg reverse crunch, forearm plank and the 20-meter-high aerobic multi-shuttle run.

Additionally, the policy introduces Enlisted Airmanship Continuum, a model encompassing training from Basic Military Training through advanced stages in Airmen’s careers. This continuation provides consistent professional development, tailored to different stages of an Airman’s career, promoting foundational skills that can be built upon as they progress in their roles.

“The new DAFI 36-2685 is a big step forward for Development Advisors. It makes our role clearer and ensures we’re helping Airmen and Guardians with the tools and support they need to grow in their careers and make informed decisions about their futures,” said U.S. Air Force Myster Duran, Vandenberg Education Center development advisor. “One exciting update is the introduction of Foundation Courses for our Airmen, which will become a mandatory prerequisite for PME by December 31, 2025. These courses will help ensure our force is better prepared for greater responsibilities and challenges. It’s inspiring to see how these changes will shape a stronger, more capable force for years to come.”

DAFI 36-2685 also updates EPME policies, including an emphasis on pregnancy-inclusive language, and improved credit systems applicable to distance learning, benefitting Reserve and Guard members, which allows them to contribute toward retirement credits.

For more information on courses and opportunities at the Vandenberg Education Center, call 805-605-5904.