Because of funding constraints, not all PDTs are currently available. Contact us for more information.
As an Air Force ROTC cadet, you’ll have access to developmental experiences that most college students can only imagine. From flying aircraft to parachuting out of them, learning hand-to-hand combat, or shadowing active-duty personnel on operational Air Force bases, the program offers unique opportunities tailored to a wide range of interests.
Cadets receive training pay during these programs, and most transportation, meals, and lodging are fully funded.
Advanced Course in Engineering (ACE)
The Advanced Course in Engineering, often referred to as “Cyber Boot Camp,” develops future cyber officers through intensive education, military internships, and physical conditioning—including weekly 8-mile runs. Graduates of the ten-week program often go on to serve in key cyber roles across the Air Force and Department of Defense. Participants must be majoring in computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, mathematics, or physics, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. The course is held in Rome, New York.
Air Force Academy Freefall (AFAFF)
This twelve-day parachute training program is conducted at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. It includes rigorous physical training, ground school, and five solo freefall jumps from 4,500 feet. Cadets who complete all five jumps earn the Basic Parachutist Badge.
Army Air Assault School (AAAS)
Offered by the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, this demanding ten-day course includes instruction on aircraft operations, slingload procedures, rappelling, and combat assault tactics. Cadets must also complete a 12-mile ruck march in under three hours while carrying required gear. Successful graduates earn the Air Assault Badge, which may be worn while in AFROTC and on active duty.
Cadet Summer Language Immersion Program (CSLIP)
CSLIP is a four-week overseas immersion program for junior and senior cadets with at least two years of college-level language study. The program offers full cultural and linguistic immersion in a country where the target language is spoken. A valid passport and visa are required.
Field Engineering and Readiness Laboratory (FERL)
FERL is a five-week program for civil engineering majors, providing hands-on experience in the Air Force civil engineering field. Training includes two weeks at an active Air Force base followed by three weeks of applied construction training at the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Project Global Officer (ProjectGO)
Funded by the Institute of International Education, this competitive eight-week program supports language and cultural immersion studies. For example, Indiana University hosts an intensive summer session for languages such as Arabic, Pashto, and Russian. Cadets earn a full year of college language credit and are expected to continue language studies during the academic year. Scholarships are awarded based on merit.
National Reconnaissance Office Summer Research Project (NRO-SRP)
Hosted in Chantilly, Virginia, this five-week program is available to scholarship-holding Professional Officer Course (POC) cadets who are eligible for a Top Secret security clearance. It provides insight into the work and mission of the National Reconnaissance Office.
Olmsted Cultural Immersion Program (OCIP)
OCIP is a two-week program focused on enhancing cultural awareness and global understanding. Previous locations have included Brazil, China, Ethiopia, Japan, Rwanda, Thailand, Vietnam, and more. A valid passport and visa are required.
Operation Air Force (OPS AF)
OPS AF is one of the most common Professional Development Training (PDT) programs. Cadets spend three weeks at an Air Force base—domestically or overseas—shadowing officers and enlisted personnel to gain a broader understanding of the Air Force mission and culture. Cadets are assigned locations based on availability and logistical considerations.
Operation Air Force—Office of Special Investigation (OPS AF-OSI)
Cadets interested in pursuing a career in Air Force OSI can shadow an OSI agent during this specialized 18-day program. Participants may also complete their mandatory career field interview during the course. A Secret clearance is required.
Soaring (SOAR)
This fifteen-day glider program introduces cadets to the fundamentals of flight through classroom instruction and in-flight training. Most cadets will fly solo by the end of the course. Training takes place at the U.S. Air Force Academy and is conducted by upperclassmen certified as soaring instructors. No prior flight experience or special medical clearance is required.
Space 250/251
Held at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Space 250 is a ten-day introductory course covering space power, its applications, and operational employment. Completion of the course authorizes cadets to wear the Basic Space Badge.