KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --
The Spring cycle for Air Force Developmental Special Duties is quickly approaching, and newly-minted NCOs may wonder what this will mean for their future in the Air Force.
According to the Air Force Personnel Center, the DSD nomination process is designed to fill specific special duties the Air Force has acknowledged as developmental because of their unique requirements. Commanders are encouraged to nominate NCOs they feel are the right fit for these duties. Nominees must have a demonstrated record of exceptional performance and a high capacity to lead.
“Members cannot simply volunteer, they must be nominated by their commander,” said Master Sgt. Sidney Crawford, Team Kadena Career Assistance Advisor. “DSD quotas flow down twice a year from AFPC to the [major commands], wings and then squadrons. A member can be nominated for two DSDs by their leadership. The nominations then flow back up the chain for checks and balances and then finally arrive at AFPC to make selections.”
There are 10 special duties available under the DSD program: Career Assistance Advisor, Military Training Instructor, Military Training Leader, Air Force Academy Military Training Instructor, Airman and Family Readiness Center NCO, First Sergeant, Air Force Honor Guard NCO, Recruiter, Professional Military Education Instructor and Airmen Dorm Leader.
Although it’s not a volunteer process, NCOs should let their leadership know if they are interested in any of these duties, and commanders should be communicating their nomination intentions to those affected.
“Squadron leadership should be sitting down with individuals that meet eligibility requirements and that they feel have the potential to lead and develop on a broader scale,” Crawford said. “Being nominated or selected for a DSD should never come as a shock to the individual.”
There are a few differences to be aware of for members who are serving in an overseas location.
“For [overseas] members in particular they should know that aside from local-hire DSDs they must be within 12 months or their [Date Eligible to Return from Overseas] to be nominated during a cycle,” Crawford explained. “If they are [in the Continental United States], they must be on station for at least 24 months before being nominated for those DSDs that aren't local hires.”
Airmen who are interested in the DSD process can find more information on myPers.
“Serving in a DSD will enhance you as a leader,” Crawford added. “Do not shy away from the opportunity if it's presented before you by your leadership. You have to go outside of your comfort zone in order to grow. Being nominated for a DSD is a big deal! It means that your leadership notices some leadership potential in you and they feel you would serve the Air Force well by developing others as well as yourself.