USAFA STO pipeline

[øhdark30_]

How does a USAFA Cadet go about joining special forces?
Is it predetermined before entering academy or is it chosen throughout tenure at academy?
Do you train for special warfare qualification after graduation, after Indoc boot camp, or throughout academy?

 

[Eagles1221]

Hello new member. I highly recommend you use the search feature to look for the several informative threads that already exist on AF Special Warfare, but I will share what I understand the process to be based on my research. You will go through BCT just like any other cadet, and you will receive your job assignment at the same point as everyone else. For all special operations career fields, there is a two-part process to be selected, you do not just put STO down on a sheet and hope you get it. Phase I is a package that you submit to AFSOC (I think), essentially asking to be invited to attend phase II. I believe there is an interview involved as well. Phase II is an in-person selection held every year led by experienced special tactics operators, PJs, CROs, etc. If you make it through Phase II you are still not guaranteed an STO slot, there is a board that will select from all successful Phase II candidates. If granted a slot you will start your pipeline with A&S after graduation.

 

[Christcorp]

My son is a sto and graduated from the academy. Normal application when you apply for any job around your 3-4 year. STO is a little different because you have to apply, they decide to allow you to try out, you go through a week long physical selection process (better be in great shape), then out of those applying they will accept a handful or so. If you don’t get selected, they may still give you a second try. If you do get selected, you’ll go through about 3 years of training. It was a little more complicated for my son because he also go selected to go to grad school for 3 years after the academy. The held his STO slot. After finishing his masters and PhD he went to STO training for 3 years. It’s hard training but worth it if you really want it. Remember too, that as an officer (STO) you only really get to do the physical combat controller stuff until you make major. After that you get more involved in management, leadership, planning, etc unlike the enlisted combat controller who can “play” for most of their career.