Government computers no longer accept flash media (Thumb Drives), due to security issues. You will not be able to transfer information from personal computers to government computers using this method (Recommended Method is External Hard Drive).
OTS does not restrict your right to receive mail. Mail will be delivered five days a week through the squadron postal officer; postal services are available on base at the Maxwell Post Office. If there is an emergency and your family must contact you quickly they can leave a message with the OTS Command Center, COMMERCIAL number 334-953-9675.
During the time that you are in training at OTS you will hold the temporary rank of E-5 (Staff Sergeant) in the United States Air Force. Upon graduation you will be commissioned a Second Lieutenant.
If you come straight from active duty to OTS and do not make it through OTS you will go back to duty as an enlisted person and revert back to the rank you were before you came to OTS. You will also most likely be sent to a new duty assignment, possibly in another career field.
While you are at OTS you will also be given Officer Trainee (OT) rank. You will start out as 4th class, move to 3rd class, then turn upper class and be selected for OT wing jobs. Each upper class job comes with a specific OT rank, these ranks vary from OT 2d Lt all the way to an OT Col. However, these ranks are only OTS training ranks and do not entitle you to added pay or benefits. While you are an OT you will render proper customs and courtesies to all senior OTs, all uniformed military officers, and all foreign officers. Active duty enlisted personnel do not have to render you a salute, or acknowledge you as an officer.
OTS is an extremely structured program. There is very little personal time, especially during the first four to six weeks. You will not have the opportunity to visit family or spend any time off Maxwell AFB until at least training week six. After training week six you will be able to earn off base privileges. These privileges allow you to leave the base at approximately 1300 hrs on Saturday, and not have to return until 1930 hrs on Sunday. However, do not plan to earn off base privileges as some in the past have had their privileges revoked for various reasons.
The OTSMAN is the authority document that covers how to perform day to day functions while at OTS in a training status. The more you are familiar with this information, the better.
While at OTS, you will be issued a government laptop for your use. These laptops are loaded with all programs necessary for completion of the many letters, forms, and briefing assignments you will be required to accomplish here. All laptops are equipped with DVD R/RW drives, USB ports (flash drives not allowed), wireless internet and Ethernet ports. Shared printers are available both in the dorms and in the academic building.
The government laptops are for your use here at OTS and on/off base. You are responsible for the care and security of this government equipment while it is in your possession.
Personal computers and printers are allowed if you feel they will be needed to maintain contact with your family or for keeping up with your personal finances. You will be able to access any appropriate civilian websites for personal business through the Air University Library network or public Wi-Fi off of the OTS campus. No public Wi-Fi is available on the OTS campus.
Please note that space is limited and you will be responsible for ensuring that your computer equipment is neat and orderly. If your printers and peripheral equipment cannot fit neatly on a desk with your laptop, you are encouraged to leave the peripheral equipment at home.
The list of items below will be provided and placed in your rooms prior to your arrival. You will be charged for these items when you arrive at OTS. You may bring additional amounts of these items if you wish.
201 File
D-Batteries (2 pk)
Laundry Bag
Mesh Bag
2-Subject Dividers (1 pkg of 5)
Flashlight Bulb
Laundry Detergent
Rings (Pack of 3)
Ruler
Flashlight
Lighter
Towels (2)
Binders (Black X 5)
Combo Lock
Lint Roller
Washcloths (2)
Black Pen (1)
Hangers
Pens (Total of 2)
Black Sharpie
Index Cards (2 pkgs)
Pencil Boxes (2)
Attaché
Labels (1 pk)
You will also be required to purchase uniforms and military clothing items from AAFES Clothing Sales. The listing below shows male and female clothing requirements.
