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Training at a glance: Orthotics program

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla
  • 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs
The Air Force's only orthotics training program is conducted at the Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Established in the 1970s, the program is dedicated to providing the highest level of training and graduating world-class orthotics technicians. The course is accredited by the Community College of the Air Force and spans seven months, with 1,160 dedicated training hours. A key component of the program is the hands-on experience students gain. Working with various tools and materials such as plaster, metal, plastic and leather, helps students  develop the skills and techniques to fabricate orthoses. Upon graduation, the Airmen go back into the operational Air Force as fully-qualified orthotics technicians.