Fire inspector changing career path with officer training Published Nov. 2, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Melissa Estevez 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Il. -- Staff Sgt. Stephen McNulty, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron fire inspector, is on his way to the Air Force's Basic Officer Training "I decided early on, probably in high school, that I wanted to be an officer," said McNulty. "I wanted to serve my country. My grandfather served 20 years in the Federal Aviation Administration and 20 years in the military including the Vietnam War, and my uncle also served." Basic Officer Training is a rigorous program designed to challenge cadets mentally and physically. Its purpose is to develop world-class officers of character who possess the American warrior ethos, embodies the Air Force Core Values and is prepared to lead Airmen. Upon graduation they commission as a second lieutenant in the Air Force. I've always wanted to fly, so my job is going to be in combat systems, in the back seat, navigating," said McNulty. A Combat Systems Officer is a member of an aircrew and is often the mission commander in many multi-crew aircraft. The CSO manages the mission and integrates systems and crew with the aircraft commander to collectively achieve and maintain situational awareness and mission effectiveness. CSOs are trained in navigation, the use of the electromagnetic spectrum, and weapon system employment. "I've spoken to many officers and many prior enlisted officers, and they say that the prior enlisted are some of the better officers they've had the experience of working with in the military," said McNulty. "They apply that knowledge and apply more of a leadership desire and strategic plan to it." Senior Airman Brian Banks, 375th Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller, said, "I believe wholeheartedly that Stephen will make a phenomenal officer in our Air Force. Over the years I have witnessed him work harder than some NCOs that I work with. His work ethic and personal moral fortitude along with our core values will make him a great officer." To apply to Basic Officer Training applicants should have degree or be close to receiving a degree. Applicants submit a package with their Air Force Officer Qualifying Test scores, physical examination, letters of recommendation and a personal interview with an officer assigned to the Air Force Recruiting Service. Earning a degree while in the military is definitely a time commitment outside of work. It requires planning in advance and using time wisely. "Having a family and trying to earn a degree is difficult, but you just have to be more deliberate with your time," said McNulty. "Time with my family was time with my family, time at work was here taking care of things, time for school and myself was just that." Basic Officer Training is a rigorous program and it takes dedication and persistence to get accepted. Going above and beyond as an Airman can set you apart from all other applicants. "Study hard in school, do well on the test, be honest to the board and be the best you can be," said McNulty. "Each time you come to a blocking point, don't give up, just keep going." After cadets graduate from the program and become officers they begin leading Airmen. "I hope that I can be as good as some of the officers I've come into contact with," said McNulty. For more information on becoming an officer through Basic Officer Training, visit www.afoats.af.mil/ots.