FTAC helps new Airmen transition to new home Published Jan. 8, 2008 By Airman Jasmin Echanique 95th Medical Support Squadron EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Scared, nervous or anxious -- these are some of the emotions Airmen might feel when moving to a new base. As new Airmen arrive at their first duty station, they are expected to attend the First Term Airman Center class, also known as FTAC, which helps them to overcome those feelings by providing them with information about the base. Edwards FTAC program transitions new Airmen from basic military and technical school concepts of thinking and prepares them to become mission-ready Airmen, said Staff Sgt. James Shepherd, FTAC lead instructor. The program informs Airmen about base services such as Airman's Council, family advocacy, finance, legal and education opportunities. First Term Airman Center also ensures Airmen maintain their military bearing as well as physical training, dress and appearance. "Airmen receive an opportunity to meet and have a question-and-answer session with the base commanders and command chiefs," Sergeant Shepherd said. "They also get briefed on the Air Force core values, the enlisted professionalism and heritage." The class is useful because it makes Airmen notice things they can improve on, such as leadership skills, said Airman 1st Class Deanna Wheeler, 95th Security Forces Squadron entry controller. "The (First Term Airmen's Center) is an efficient and effective method of transition into the Air Force," Airman Wheeler said. Regardless of emotions felt as a brand new Airman, FTAC is here to help make Airmen's lives a bit easier, Sergeant Shepherd said. "It gives Airmen valuable information and also reminds them to make sure they represent the Air Force to the highest standard," he added.