The AFJROTC (Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) Aerospace Science (AS) and
Leadership Education (LE) curriculum evolves progressively from Year 1 to Year 4. THERE IS
NO MILITARY COMMITMENT OR COST TO JOIN JROTC.
Year 1: Foundations of AFJROTC
Aerospace Science (AS): A Journey Into Aviation History
• History of flight: Early myths, Wright Brothers, and World Wars
• Development of military and commercial aviation
• Key events and personalities in aviation history
Leadership Education (LE): Traditions, Wellness, and Foundations of Citizenship
• Air Force core values and customs
• Basic study habits, time management, and goal setting
• Citizenship principles and personal responsibility
• Introduction to basic drill and ceremonies
Year 2: Aviation Science and Communication Skills
Aerospace Science (AS): The Science of Flight
• Principles of flight and aerodynamics
• Navigation, weather, and the aviation environment
• Aircraft systems and performance basics
Leadership Education (LE): Communication, Awareness, and Leadership
• Effective verbal and written communication
• Intermediate leadership concepts and skills
• Team-building and collaboration exercises
• Intermediate drill and ceremonies
Year 3: Space Exploration and Advanced Leadership
Aerospace Science (AS): Exploring Space: The High Frontier
• History and future of space exploration
• Space missions, satellites, and the role of the Space Force
• Rocketry and principles of space travel
• Astronomy and the universe
Leadership Education (LE): Life Skills and Leadership Development
• Advanced leadership and decision-making strategies
• Career readiness: Resumes, interviews, and workplace skills
• Financial literacy and personal budgeting
• Advanced drill and ceremonies
Year 4: Senior Leadership and Management
Aerospace Science (AS): Management of the Cadet Corps
• Senior cadets manage the unit and apply leadership skills
• Hands-on experience in planning, organization, and evaluation
• Customized topics like aviation careers or military history (optional)
Leadership Education (LE): Principles of Management
• Leadership theories and management practices
• Problem-solving and critical thinking in leadership
• Capstone projects and mentorship of younger cadets
Additional Notes:
• Leadership Education and Aerospace Science are taught concurrently, ensuring cadets
develop both knowledge and leadership skills annually.
• Physical fitness and community service are integral throughout all four years.
This year-to-year structure ensures a progression of knowledge, skills, and responsibilities as
cadets advance in the program.
AFJROTC is designed to challenge cadets to grow as individuals and develop critical life
skills by pushing them to overcome personal barriers.
Here’s how JROTC promotes this growth:
1. Leadership Development
• Cadets are given responsibilities that test their ability to lead and make decisions under
pressure. For example, leading drill teams or organizing community service events allows
them to develop leadership skills.
2. Teamwork and Collaboration
• JROTC challenges cadets to work in teams, teaching them to rely on and support each
other. This collaboration builds trust, improves communication, and helps them recognize
the value of different perspectives.
3. Physical Fitness
• Physical training programs push cadets to achieve goals they might have considered
unattainable. Confidence grows as they improve endurance, strength, and overall fitness.
4. Problem-Solving Skills
• Activities like field training exercises, competitions, and group challenges encourage
cadets to think critically and creatively to overcome obstacles.
5. Public Speaking and Confidence
• Opportunities to speak in front of their peers, present ideas, or take on leadership roles
help cadets overcome fears of public speaking and improve their self-assurance.
6. Resilience and Perseverance
• Whether it’s failing a task and trying again, facing constructive criticism, or managing
stress during challenging situations, cadets learn to persevere and grow stronger.
7. Community Service and Citizenship
• Engaging in service projects teaches cadets to step out of their comfort zones and see the
impact they can make in their communities, inspiring personal growth.
By overcoming personal barriers, JROTC cadets emerge as more disciplined, confident,
and capable leaders, better prepared for challenges in school, future careers, and life.
Scholarships: AFJROTC Flight Academy Private Pilot Scholarship and the J-100
AFJROTC Character-in-Leadership Scholarship:
1. AFJROTC Flight Academy Private Pilot Scholarship
Overview
This prestigious scholarship provides cadets the opportunity to earn their Private Pilot’s License
(PPL) at a university flight school during a fully-funded summer training program.
Eligibility
• Must be a current AFJROTC cadet in good standing.
• Be at least 17 years old by the start of training.
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (unweighted).
• Must pass an FAA medical exam.
• Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to the AFJROTC values.
• Be able to travel to the training site for 8-10 weeks during the summer.
Benefits
• Full funding for tuition, room and board, and flight hours needed to obtain the PPL.
• Transportation to and from the training site.
• Networking opportunities with aviation professionals.
Application Process
• Applications open in the fall through the WINGS portal.
• Requires a personal statement, recommendation from the Senior Aerospace Science
Instructor (SASI), and medical clearance documentation.
• Selection is based on academic performance, leadership traits, and passion for aviation.
2. J-100 AFJROTC Character-in-Leadership Scholarship
Overview
The J-100 Scholarship is a highly competitive program offering four years of fully funded
college tuition, room and board, books, and a monthly stipend. It is intended to recognize
cadets who exemplify exceptional character and leadership. Recipients are guaranteed
enrollment in the Air Force ROTC program and have a pathway to commission as an officer.
Eligibility
• Current AFJROTC cadet in good standing.
• U.S. citizen.
• Must meet academic standards:
o Minimum 3.0 GPA (unweighted).
o Competitive SAT/ACT scores (minimum SAT 1240 or ACT 26).
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership, character, and dedication to service.
• Pass a Department of Defense Medical Exam.
• Commitment to enroll in Air Force ROTC at a partnering university.
Benefits
• Covers full tuition and fees at a partnering university.
• Includes funding for room and board, books, and a monthly living stipend.
• Guaranteed pathway to commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force or
Space Force upon graduation.
Application Process
• Applications open in the fall and close in December.
• Candidates apply through the WINGS portal and must complete:
o A personal essay highlighting leadership and character.
o SASI recommendation.
o Evidence of physical fitness.
o Interview as part of the selection process.
3. JROTC CTE Credential
Overview
JROTC is recognized as a Career and Technical Education Program and receives CTE credit in
30 states. Cadets can earn a “Leadership and Employability Skills Credential” by completing a
test through the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI).
Eligibility
• Current AFJROTC cadet in good standing.
• Be a senior and in the 4th year of the AFJROTC program.
Benefits
• Enhanced Student Opportunities: Credential is recognized by educational institutions and
employers, improving their postsecondary education and career prospects.
• The Leadership and Employability Skills Credential easily aligns with civilian and
military career clusters.
Application Process
• Applications open in the spring semester.
• Cadets apply through the AFJROTC instructor.
