Becoming an MTI? There's an app for that

  • Published
  • By Nathan Simmons
  • Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  There's a smart phone application for just about everything these days, including joining the ranks of the Air Force's military training instructor corps. The app, simply called "Air Force MTI", is free and available for Apple, Android and Blackberry devices.

"It takes a special person to be an MTI," said Master Sgt. Eric Gaona, an MTI in the 737th Training Squadron, who recruits for the corps. "Becoming an MTI allows you to highlight yourself as a leader who can mold civilians into Airmen -- it's a great career move."

The Air Force is looking to beef up its MTI corps, as the goal is to have 565 training instructors. Currently, there are roughly 475. Gaona said the corps is especially looking to recruit female instructors, so the MTI corps is representative of the number of female Airmen in the service.

Women make up approximately 20 percent of the service, yet only around 10 percent of the MTI corps consists of female Airmen, Gaona said.

In the "MTI Life" segment of the app, potential applicants will find a comprehensive and entertaining collection of photos and videos of basic military training, and can view the entire experience from orientation to graduation. What's particularly special about the app is the week-by-week breakdown of BMT, which contains images, videos and a training schedule for each week.

"MTI Perspective" videos highlight the key takeaways for each week of BMT, from the viewpoint of an MTI. The application provides a thorough snapshot of what the job entails, while providing a general understanding of what it takes to become one of the most disciplined leaders in the Air Force.

"Serving as a military training instructor is a rewarding career broadening opportunity that allows you to play an instrumental role in training and developing new recruits into enlisted Airmen," said Chief Master Sgt. Garry Berry, 47th Flying Training Wing command chief.
The mobile app provides information on eligibility requirements and the application process including links, contact information and the applications themselves. There are also photos, a video library, and information on the MTI Shadow Program -- an opportunity for an interested member to shadow an MTI to experience it for themselves.

Other segments include a robust FAQ section, and a section devoted to Air National Guard and Reserve personnel. To download the app, simply search for "Air Force MTI" in the app market.