JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Have you ever wondered what it takes to make the rank of E-8 and E-9? Are you currently doing the right things required to make these ranks? Have you found a mentor to help you out?
If your goal is to become a senior master sergeant or chief master sergeant, then you need to start working on this when you are a senior airman or staff sergeant. It's very hard to achieve these ranks and the earlier you get started the better.
There are five basic areas you must have when competing for E-8 and E-9: Community College of the Air Force, Senior Non-commissioned Officers Academy, fives on your Enlisted Performance Reports, a Meritorious Service Medal and Senior Rater endorsement. In order to receive a SR endorsement, you should have your CCAF completed. The CCAF is one of the easiest degrees you can achieve as long as you put a little effort into it.
Some other accomplishments that will help separate you from your peers are additional degrees like a Bachelor degree, getting involved with the community or local base private organizations (i.e. First Six, Top 3), and performing a special duty then returning to your original career field. Also important are quarterly and annual awards, Air Force level awards, Professional Military Education, being successful in a position with a standard above your current pay-grade, and most important of all; sustained performance. This is why it's important to start early. You must be able to prove to the board members that you are what the Air Force is looking for to fill its E-8 and E-9 positions. So if E-8 and E-9 are goals that you have set for yourself, start working on the required steps now.
You can also visit the JB CHS' Professional Enhancement Center to find out more about this process.