Staff Sergeant

Areas of Focus for SSgt

(The Brown Book) Enlisted Force Structure

Noncommissioned Officers: The “backbone” of the United States Air Force. This tier focuses on training, supervision, and task execution and consists of Staff Sergeant (SSgt) and Technical Sergeant (TSgt). NCOs lead by example as role models to all and ensure proper use of resources within their control. They become proficient and internalize the Airman Leadership Qualities and progress toward intermediate and advanced foundational competency levels. Additionally, they continue their development through Enlisted Professional Military Education and career-broadening positions, as they begin building a strong network within and outside their organizations. As Noncommissioned Officer's progress in this tier, the focus will be on establishing proficiency.

  • Staff Sergeant. Earn the 7-skill level and further develop as technicians, supervisors, and leaders. Responsible for their subordinate's development and effective accomplishment of all tasks


NCO Responsibilities (The Brown Book, pages 15-16):

  • Developing Self

  • Developing Others

  • Developing Ideas

  • Developing Organizations

Development Path:

  • Complete 7-skill level

  • Complete First Line Supervisor's Course (1LSC) - signup via ARCNet

  • Complete Air Force Training Course (AFTC) - signup via ARCNet

  • Civilian College Courses, CLEPs/DSSTs - work toward CCAF or Associates Degree

Develop Leadership and Supervisory Skills

  • Trainer and/or Mentor for one or more Airman

  • Supervise one or more Airmen

  • Volunteer for Additional Duties to learn new skills

  • Panel member for a mock board

  • Guide your Airmen through and support their Individual Development Plan

NMANG Leadership, History, and State Partnership Program (SPP):

Key Air Force Systems to Know:

Promote Organizational Culture:

  • Active Participation in the squadron, group, wing, and community (morale committee, booster club, Rising 6, etc.)

  • Professional Organizations: EANGUS

  • Professionalism, Attitude, Work Ethic, Camaraderie Maintain Mission Readiness: fitness assessment, medical and dental, mobility, AFSC Upgrade Training

  • Volunteer for Additional Duties to learn new skills

  • Attend a mock board and request feedback


Enlisted Force Development

Methods Of Development And Career Progression