Frequently Asked Questions

There is a requirement to wear the uniform at least once a week. BTW, there are many professions in the civilian world that require uniforms so this is a good chance to start getting used to wearing one.

The Air Force uniform requires grooming standards, so males need to shave and cut their hair while females need to have their hair wrapped in a bun or put up in a pony tail (if it’s long) and understand the jewelry and make-up requirements. Note: I did not say a female needs to cut their hair! That decision is up to the female and is usually a last resort.

Colonel Johnson is the SASI (Senior Aerospace Instructor) and Chief Master Sergeant Phillips is the ASI (Aerospace Science Instructor). Both have over 30 years of military service.  CMSgt Phillips has been at Burns for two years and Col Johnson is in his seventh year as a public school teacher. 

Absolutely not. AFJROTC is all about creating better citizens for our country while teaching in a military style. However, cadets are free to join any military branch if they want. Statistically speaking less than 5% join the military but 99% that complete the program say it was worth it.

You can but many of the leadership roles require afterschool commitments. If you want to just attend the daily class and weekly PT session that’s fine too. There is still a bunch you can gain but you’ll miss out on some cool stuff. 

There are many – 15 or so with cadet officer ranks going from lieutenant to colonel. At the beginning of each year there will be a lot of temporary roles until everyone gets a chance to try various positions and understand the routines. Then the program really becomes cadet run and the instructor(s) step back and only provide correction, mentorship and guidance.

The textbooks, uniforms, supplies and equipment are provided by the US Air Force and are “on loan” to the cadets. However, any damage done to these items could result in a significant debt to the cadet. Otherwise, all cadets are charged a once-per-school year Student Activity fee of $45. This fee is used to help defray costs not covered by the Air Force.     

As tough as you want it to be. We’ll do an assessment for the PFT (President’s Fitness Test) twice a year. Then a mixture of traditional exercises (calisthenics, pushups, sit-ups, running) with circuit training and occasionally some modified sports: Tennis Court Volleyball, Kickball. Some units create a PFT club so they can compete with other local units. The basic expectation is that cadets take fitness seriously and make progress toward their own fitness goal. 

Yes, but realize you’ll be in the first year group. If your goal is to earn a certificate for advanced rank in the military, that takes 2 – 3 years of AFJROTC.

The unit Cadet Guide can answer most other questions.  Otherwise, you can always call Col Johnson or CMSgt Phillips. Cadets don’t need to know everything before they start and it’s a good bet that any questions that can’t be answered here or in the Cadet Guide will probably be answered in the curriculum.