U.S. Army Pilot AVOTEC Program

Congress has selected the Army to participate in an education pilot program designed to provide expanded education opportunities for soldiers, officers and Wounded Warriors serving on active duty, including National Guard and Reserve Soldiers on extended active duty.

The intent of this short-term pilot program is to provide training in high-demand career fields to help soldiers find employment after they transition out of the Army. Army Education is working with technical and community colleges throughout the United States to build upon existing programs and develop new pilot re-training programs in high demand career occupations, such as rehabilitation, nursing, medical technology, and other health care occupations.

The Army Vocational/Technical (AVOTEC) Program was announced January 15 and Army Education Centers and Soldier and Family Assistance Centers began assisting soldiers with enrollment on February 1.

The AVOTEC website provides an up-to-date listing of community and technical college programs includeed in the AVOTEC Program. Soldiers are to consider enrollment in these programs for training or re-training. Programs can be no longer than 18 months in length and should not exceed the maximum cost limit of $4500.00 per fiscal year.

All costs for instruction, certificate, or license must be paid by September 30, 2009. No additional funds will be available after the ending date for this pilot program.