Laughlin air traffic controller accepted to prestigious AFIT program

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Patrick O'Neill and Master Sgt. Peter Borys
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Technical Sgt. Jason Russi was recently selected for the Enlisted-to-Air Force Institute of Technology program. He was one of six enlisted members selected from across the Air Force.

AFIT, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the Air Force's graduate school of engineering and management.

The Enlisted-to-AFIT program is a unique element of enlisted professional development designed to further develop noncommissioned officers' technical education and skills. Ultimately, this program provides enhanced combat capability for diverse career fields with positions that demand a higher degree of education.

Technical Sgt. Russi is a dual-qualified air traffic controller at Laughlin with 11 years experience in the Air Force. He has been recognized throughout his career with praise from his leadership including the John L. Levitow Award at the Airman Leadership School and Distinguished Graduate of the NCO Academy.

Technical Sgt. Russi was thrilled with the great news.

"I found out via the Air Force Personnel Center Officer Force Development and Learning Community of Practice March 2. That was their official public release," said Sergeant Russi.

He will be departing for the school in August of 2011.

"My degree program is 18 months and I will earn my Master's in Information Resource Management," said Sergeant Russi.

After completing the degree program, Tech. Sgt. Russi will return to Air Traffic Control with a follow-on assignment to complete his Air Force career.

Sergeant Russi holds a Bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. For young Airmen interested in taking advantage of the programs the Air Force has to offer, Sergeant Russi had this advice.

"Take the time to attend classes whenever you can, give up your weekends and use the Air Force's outstanding tuition assistance programs," said Sergeant Russi.