PDC serves as education, professional development one-stop shop

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Dilia Ayala
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Aff
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  It's been almost a year since its doors opened as a one-stop shop for education and professional development; today the Whiteman Professional Development Center stands ready to serve those who enter through its doors.

"The reason the building was constructed was to bring all elements of education and development under one roof," said Cathy Brogan, Whiteman Education Services officer and test control officer. "We encourage everyone to stop by and see what it is we have to offer. The staff of each element within the PDC are very knowledgeable on each of their programs and services and we stand ready to assist."

The Professional Development Center is home to the Education Center, Airmen Leadership School, First Term Airmen Center, WAPS testing and the base Career Assistance Advisor and offers a full-package deal for those looking to further or reach their education and professional goals.

Something for everyone
A survey taken at basic military training indicated that 91 percent of individuals joined the Air Force to get an education, she said. Recognizing this demand, the Air Force offers $4,500 per year in tuition assistance -- not a loan, but a military benefit. Couple that with a state-of-the-art facility, active duty members have a direct path to reach their educational goals.

Ms. Brogan also pointed out that the Education Center doesn't just service active duty members, "Anyone who has base access can use our services, to include dependents, retirees, civilian employees and contractors."

Whether someone is looking to further their college education or are simply new to the base, the PDC has something for anyone wanting to grow academically and professionally. Counseling services are available to help individuals find the right degree program and the school that's right for them, she said. Briefings on how an enlisted member can apply for a commissioning program through Officer Training School or ROTC are also offered.

"(Partnered with area colleges,) the education center offers courses needed to complete a Community College of the Air Force Degree, Associate, Bachelor and Master Degree programs," Ms. Brogan said.

State Fair Community College conducts classes at the PDC that meet the requirements for a CCAF degree and also students can earn their Associate Degree in General Studies without stepping foot off the base, she explained. Once that degree is complete, the student can then move on to Park University which offers five under-graduate degree programs (all courses held right here on the base). If a student wishes to continue on, Webster University offers four degree programs at the graduate level. Webster also offers courses in business and organizational security management.

"Obviously, not everyone wants to pursue an academic degree," said Ms. Brogan. "There are some people who prefer the hands-on approach, such as welding, truck driving, cosmetology, etc. In order to help active duty members prepare for a career after the Air Force, tuition assistance is also authorized for these kinds of licensing/certification programs. Up to $9,000 ($4,500 per year) for programs offered through accredited schools--once again, not a loan, this is a benefit."

Test center central
Additionally, a variety of testing is available to include: Professional Military Education, Career Development Course, College Level Equivalency Program, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support, Scholastic Aptitude Test, American College Test, Automotive Service Excellence and school/university testing.

As one of Whiteman's newest additions, the 76,000 square foot PDC is open for business and ready to serve anyone looking to broaden their educational and professional horizons.

For more information, call (660) 687-5752.