AFPC accepting applications for test pilot school Published July 7, 2009 RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The next annual Air Force test pilot school selection board will convene Sep. 28-Oct. 2 at the Air Force Personnel Center here for classes beginning in July 2010 and July 2011. Officers interested in applying should submit their applications to AFPC by Aug. 14, 2009. "The U.S Air Force test pilot school is the world's preeminent fixed-wing test pilot school," said Howard Peterson, AFPC Special Flying Programs personnel technician. "Graduates of TPS are in high demand in an era of increasing technology advancements on the battle field. Graduates also have a profound influence on the designs of future combat capabilities and ensure mission suitability for use in the field." TPS trains pilots, combat systems officers, and military and civilian engineers to develop, test and evaluate the newest aircraft and weapons systems. The selects will fill positions in the fighter, multi-engine, helicopter and/or unmanned aerial vehicle categories. Rotary wing pilots and engineers will conduct testing on the latest rotary wing systems to include CV-22 and Special Operations assets. TPS recently expanded the program to include a new unmanned aerial system curriculum as part of the Combat Systems Officer classification. "In addition," Mr. Peterson added, "The U.S. Air Force test pilot school conducts exchange programs with the U.S. Navy, United Kingdom, and French test pilot schools to train fixed and rotary wing pilots and flight test engineers." New graduates of TPS are awarded a Master of Science degree in flight test engineering by Air University, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Eligible Air Force Officers and civilians may also volunteer for a joint Air Force Institute of Technology and TPS program leading to an additional MS in Aeronautical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering. Applicants from all aircraft types and backgrounds must have strong academic and technical experience and a desire to help develop the next generation of Air Force weapons systems. All applications and updates to applications already on file are due to AFPC by Aug 14. Applications received after the cut-off date will not be considered by the selection board. For additional details on the TPS application process and requirements, visit the TPS Web site, www.edwards.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=6467 or call the Total Force Service Center at (800) 525-0102. You can also visit AFPC's "Ask" Web site and search for "test pilot."