What is the duration of the course?
Five days (four standardized material, one day MAJCOM/Wing specific material)
Is the course mandatory?
Yes, it is a prerequisite prior to attending your rank specific formal PME. Formalized policy will not be released until tentatively FY25.
When will members be required to attend Foundation Courses?
As of now, there is no policy that dictates this. Foundation courses must be completed prior to attending any formalized PME applicable for that tier (i.e., 300 will be required prior to ALS; 500 will be required prior to NCOA; and 700 will be required prior to SNCOA.)
How many students will be in a course?
Ideally, 12-16 students per facilitator, to enhance the team collaboration setting
Will the 300 course replace FTAC?
No. Students will still be required to attend FTAC.
Will it be mandatory to complete prior levels of foundation courses once it is officially launched?
No. On the date the policy is official (tentatively FY25), the enlisted professional will begin their progress from the last EPME and/or Foundations course completed.
For example: The policy is published for mandatory Foundations before attending a formal EPME Course (ALS, NCO, SNCOA). TSgt Smith sewed on the day after the policy was implemented, and the last formal course she took was ALS. TSgt Smith would be required to attend Foundations 500 before attending NCOA, but would not be required to complete Foundations 300.
How were the course competencies and material determined?
They were determined though the Enlisted Force Structure, Foundational competencies (BluePrint) and paired with JQS/ALQs for each level of leadership.
How often will each course be offered?
The MAJCOMs and wings will work with developmental advisors to coordinate course dates and times pending policy publication.
Is the course being tested?
Yes. The initial operational capability, IOC, will take place at four bases beginning November 2023: Wright-Patterson, McGhee-Tyson, Scott and Lackland.