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My educational journey: A 2W2 perspective

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Julie Van Hise
  • 898 MUNS/MXWK
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  Taking classes as a 2W2 Nuclear Weapons Technician isn't easy, no matter what time frame you are talking about (before/during/after the Minot incident). With that said, it certainly doesn't get easier to take classes during an inspection (before/during/after), especially one that the unit fails. However, it can still be done.

I began working on my Community College of the Air Force Degree in 1998 upon arrival at my first duty station, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. It was difficult as a one-striper working on Career Development Courses and learning how to perform maintenance on the Minuteman III missile.

In 2001, I received my certificate of completion for the CCAF Associate of Applied Science in Munitions Systems Technology, with a 4.0 grade point average, along with receipt of the CCAF Pitsenbarger Award Grant. A few years (and a couple of permanent changes of station) later, I finished my bachelor's of science degree in Management/Computer Information Systems from Park University, with a 3.96 GPA, in June 2008. I then continued with Park University, completing the online master's program and receiving a master's in Business Administration/Management Information Systems, with a 3.75 GPA and the Park University Leadership Award, in June 2010.

Throughout the years, I have worked several weekends and extended hours. In 2006 I became a mom, and in 2007 I got divorced. Even with all of that excitement, professional military education, and the everyday rigors of work, family, and staying fit, it is definitely possible to take classes and further one's education. It takes time management, coffee at times, some sleepless nights, and sometimes just an e-mail to the instructor explaining the situation of why it isn't done ... sometimes an extension is granted, other times not.

While we work long hours, I can't complain. I didn't have to miss classes and exams because of temporary duty, and I certainly didn't have to worry about a deployment. The work schedule during the week is somewhat reliable and steady, and I get weekends off. And while not every 2W2 has the luxury of limited TDYs and steady work hours, there is always time to squeeze in some on-line classes. Now as a senior master sergeant select, I am thinking of pursuing a doctorate or perhaps a second bachelor's in Veterinary Technology -- still while serving active duty.

Why pursue the education? As I have learned, and progressed through the ranks, your education level plays an important role in getting the mission done. Whether you take college classes or seminars on leadership, management, etc., you are learning. And, no matter what rank you may be, and no matter what job you may do, when you are learning, you become better equipped to deal with everyday issues, resulting in reduced stress and a better working environment.