Plan C
Air Force
What They Do
Members of the U.S. military service maintain the U.S. national defense.
Work Environment
Service members move regularly for training or job assignments, with most rotations lasting 2 to 4 years. Some are deployed internationally to defend U.S. national interests. Military members must be both physically and mentally fit, and ready to participate in, or support, combat missions that may be difficult and dangerous and involve long periods away from family. Some personnel, however, are rarely deployed near combat areas.
How to Become One
Although entry requirements for each service vary, certain qualifications for enlistment are common to all branches:
- Minimum of 17 years of age
- U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Never convicted of a felony
- Able to pass a medical exam
Pay
Basic pay is based on rank and time in service.
Job Outlook
BLS employment projections cover the civilian workforce only. The goal of the Armed Forces is to maintain a force sufficient to deter, fight, and overcome various threats or conflicts in multiple regions at the same time.
Similar Occupations
U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, U.S. Space Force, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, Army National Guard, Air National Guard.