ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —
The Department of the Air Force introduced a new set of instructions and policies under DAFI 36-2685, Total Force Enlisted Developmental Education, Oct. 9.
The changes are part of an ongoing effort to streamline and modernize Total Force enlisted development following the separation of DAFI 36-2670, Total Force Development, into more specialized instructions.
The new policy:
• Formalizes a structured continuum that connects base-level professional development to Enlisted Professional Military Education, providing a more cohesive framework for enlisted career progression.
• Establishes installation development centers as the designated host for Enlisted Foundations Courses, delivering timely and relevant content to Total Force Airmen. By 2026, active duty and Reserve Airmen will be required to complete foundation courses before attending Enlisted Professional Military Education. The requirement will go into effect for Air National Guard Airmen by 2027.
• Clarifies the roles and responsibilities of development advisors, previously known as career assistance advisors, particularly in overseeing the Informed Decision Program, First Term Enlisted Course and Foundations Courses.
It also highlights updated EPME schoolhouse policies including:
• The Air Force Directorate of Force Development worked with the DAF Women’s Initiative Team to minimize pregnancy-disqualifying language. Pregnancy is not a disqualifier for EPME; members may defer as with any profile or waiver.
• Airmen must comply with the standards outlined in DAFI 36-2905, Department of the Air Force Physical Fitness Program, and meet standards enforcement at schoolhouses.
• Clarifications around Extension Course Institute points for distance learning attendees will support Total Force members by contributing towards retirement credits for Reserve and Guard Airmen.
The updated policy also codifies changes to Guardian development.
• Explains the role Space Force Directorate of Force Development (SF/S1D) plays in Guardian development.
• Adds references to Space Training and Readiness Command where appropriate.
• Authorizes wear of the EPME Graduate Ribbon for Vosler Fellowship I, II & III graduates.
• Clarifies the relationship between Space Delta 13 and Air University.
• Lists Space Force references for Guardians with questions about EPME, Foundations, fitness and other requirements.
This publication marks a critical evolution in the development and education of enlisted Airmen and Guardians, aimed at better preparing them for leadership roles while maintaining flexibility in their career progression.
The updated DAFI 36-2685, Total Force Enlisted Developmental Education can be found here.
This "DAF announces new enlisted development and education policy" was originally found on https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/