TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- As the Air Force transitions away from the E-3 AWACS platform, Airborne Mission Systems Specialists (1A3) and Air Battle Managers (13B) will be redeployed to other airborne platforms and roles, focusing on command and control, battle management, and air-to-air refueling. Three members of the 225th Air Defense Squadron travelled to Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., March 10-12, 2025, to educate those Airmen on potential opportunities with the Washington Air National Guard’s Western Air Defense Sector.
During the recruiting roadshow, WADS Guardsmen meet with over 50 members from the 960th Airborne Air Control Squadron (AACS), the 963rd AACS, the 964th AACS, the 965th AACS, the 966th AACS, the 552nd Training Support Squadron, 552nd Operations Support Squadron, and the 752nd Operations Support Squadron.
The Guardsmen provided information about career opportunities at WADS, enhanced awareness of the WADS mission, and engaged with potential candidates for critical positions where candidates would be able to cross train.
The visit was a great success yielding 29 Airmen who are interested in learning more about joining the WADS team. A couple have already submitted their applications, and six more are in the process of submitting for the next hiring board. “This is a win-win for the active-duty Air Force and the Washington Air National Guard,” explained Lt. Col. Peter Hickman, 225th Air Defense Squadron commander.