310 Ramstein graduates receive their CCAF

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Trevor Rhynes
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  Graduation day, the day hundreds of people have been looking forward to since beginning their education.

This Community College of the Air Force graduation is different than others that have been held here, it's the largest graduating class to date, with 310 Airmen receiving their degrees.

Members of the graduating class ranged from airman 1st class to senior master sergeant, and shows how more Airmen are taking pride in their education.

"We continue to see an increase in enrollments and interest, due to the fact that education is such an integral part of professional development," said Keith Davis, education center chief of education and training. "Airmen should focus initially on completing their CCAF degree and then continue to pursue their higher education goals."

For one Airman, getting his CCAF early meant help having more experience and training for his career.

"I wanted to finish my CCAF early, to assist with all of my training throughout my career in the Air Force," said Senior Airman Matthew Clark, 886th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter.

With only six credits transferred from before he joined the Air Force, Clark not only wanted to get his associates degree, but work toward a master's degree in fire science.

"In addition to my CCAF, I'm also working towards my bachelor's degree and afterwards will transfer into a master's degree," he said.

Clark wanted to get his degree finished so he could move toward his goal of being a fire instructor.

"It was important for me to reach these goals not only for my military career, but also for my career afterwards," Clark added. "I intend to retire from the military and when I do, my next adventure will be (teaching) at the university level."

Those interested in pursuing their education can take classes, or CLEP classes for credit. For more information call the education office at 480-2032 or 06371-47-2032.