GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. – A dip in the number of pilots Air Force-wide has units hustling to fill vacancies, including the 434th Air Refueling Wing at Grissom. 1st Lt. Steven Bretscher said, “The easiest way to become a pilot at Grissom is for qualified pilots to transfer from another guard/reserve unit or transition from active duty military, but we realize that method alone is not going to fill the pilot shortage we are currently experiencing. The other way to become a pilot, without any prior experience, starts by completing the application process, being sponsored through the 434th ARW and then going through the proper training.” Individuals who chose to go through the application process need to have a bachelor’s degree, pass the Air Force officer qualification test, and meet the maximum age requirement of 30. After completing the application process, those selected will be sponsored through Grissom and attend Officer Training School, initial flight training and undergraduate pilot training before returning to the base to complete their training. With efforts to increase pilot manpower by 10%, Grissom is also looking for enlisted Airmen stationed at the wing who are interested in the program. If you are interested in becoming a pilot, you can contact Lt. Bretscher at 765-688-3444 for more information.