Annual Fair opens doors for education opportunities Published Aug. 20, 2013 By Jet Fabara 412th Test Wing Public Affairs EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- More than 48 colleges and universities were in attendance during the base's annual education fair sponsored by the Edwards Education Office at Club Muroc's Alliance Ballroom Aug. 14, 2013. The education fair was open to all military, dependents, retirees and Department of Defense civilians. "By offering annual education fairs, the Education Office is implementing and supporting the Air Force Voluntary Education Mission Statement which is 'to provide and fund educational opportunities and services that enhance an Airman's professional and personal development,'" said Elizabeth Hodge, 412th Force Support Squadron education specialist. "This program also promotes continuing education as part of the military and civilian Air Force Materiel Command's 'Year of the Graduate' campaign." During the fair, attendees were invited to talk to college representatives and recruiters about any and all education opportunities available to prospective students. "An event like this not only allows military, but anyone with the opportunity to enhance their careers and their future if they choose to get out or stay in," said Staff Sgt. Samuel Davis, 412th Maintenance Squadron, Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory technician. "Education is extremely important and you can only get so far in your military career without an education." According to Hodge, the Education Office sent out invitations to the top colleges in the area and in other states offering them an opportunity to participate in the base's education fair. In the occasion where base personnel were unable to attend, Hodge reiterated that Edwards Education Office counselors and staff are always available to assist our military and civilian Airmen with the following: - Educational Counseling - Professional Military Education (PME) and College Testing - Tuition Assistance (TA) - Setting up your College Classes - Academic Advisement - PME Program Development - Civilian Developmental Educational Programs (CDE) "In addition to supporting the Air Force Voluntary Education Mission, education fairs also provide schools, without an on-base Memorandum of Understanding and who are not authorized permanent space on-base, access to our base personnel to provide educational information about their school," added Hodge. "Military and civilian Airmen who continue to learn throughout their careers become more effective in their jobs and higher education further supports career job achievement." For more information on how you can continue your education, contact the Edwards Education Office at (661) 277-2713.