Bart Bennett

The Air Force typically trains 30,000 to 40,000 new airmen a year. It utilizes two methods for training enlistees: centralized initial skills training ("schoolhouse" training) and decentralized on-the-job training. The authors develop a methodology to determine the most cost-effective combination of the two, based on a cost-benefit analysis of seven Air Force specialties.

Improving the Air Force's training management and decision processes; An examination of Air Force training management and decision processes and the data needed for informed decisionmaking. A model of management is developed to evaluate the data flow in the AETC training pipeline. The study concludes that consolidation of the strategic management functions would resolve many current data flow problems, and methodological tools, including simulations, should be developed to improve data combination and interpretation, particularly in the area of cost.

This documented briefing discusses and illustrates the advantages of exploratory analysis over more traditional model-based analysis in the context of the weapon mix problem.