Vantaggi
The Air Force, as well as other branches of the military provide outstanding training for multitudes of career types. Regardless of which career path you choose, you will receive free training that in almost every case, is very usable throughout your enlistment and beyond. In most instances, you will also be provided with a free background check and security clearance, which is equally valuable once your active duty commitment ends. The uniqueness of the military mission generally fosters a lot of camaraderie. While it may not always be felt, when the time comes the sense of "family" that the military brings with it tends to create an extremely effective work environment. Promotion in the military is generally very timely, and is almost entirely dependent on what each individual wants. Persons that work hard and commit themselves to being an airman as a whole will progress rapidly. The medical and dental benefits offered up as an active duty member are outstanding. There is almost zero cost for active duty and family members, save a few circumstances. Other benefits include access to base facilities such as the BX, Commissary, gym, outdoor recreation facilities and multiple other services. The military also provides outstanding education benefits, compensating or paying in full for college tuition for it's active duty members, and at most times covering part of the tuition of family members. This is in addition to the GI Bill, which can be used later in life to pursue further education or other types of training.
Svantaggi
The current work load demanded by the Air Force can be a bit overwhelming at times. Combat exercises, 12-hour shifts and rotating schedules are a frequent part of airman's lives. In the case of some career fields, it is more a standard than an occasion, and family members are required to live with that particular demand. Most families are unable to stay rooted in one particular area, with a move (Permanent Change of Station) generally happening every 3-4 years. These moves can result in a family ending up in a different city, state or even country. People living overseas may find communication with extended family back home to be difficult and sometimes too costly to keep up with. Some moves require that the military member travel overseas alone for a period of a year or more. Deployments are cause for a lot of stress within military families. Communication between deployed members and their families is often severely limited, based on location. Most deployed locations allow for approximately two calls per week, at a max of 15 minutes per call. Current deployments can last anywhere from a couple months up to more than a year.