FW 004: US Air Force Veteran talks to us about the 1U0X1 UAV Sensor Operator AFSC

On this episode, I’m interviewing an Air Force veteran on the 1U0X1 – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Sensor Operator AFSC.

Michael (changed for safety and operational security) was on the ground floor when the 1U1X1 AFSC was initially created and is even using his skills as a contractor on the outside.

Forever Wingman 1U0X1 - UAV/RPA Sensor Operator AFSC Page

Some of the biggest things that I took away from this very informative interview was:

1. UAVs are in their infancy and Sensor Operators are the modern day Wright brothers in the UAV community.

2. The number one misconception for new Airman coming in to be Sensor Operators is that they don’t realize it isn’t a video game. It’s a very serious job and life and death are at stake.

Here’s a little overview of the AFSC:

Duties. Performs duties as a mission crew member on Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). RPA Sensor Operators employs airborne sensors in manual or computer-assisted modes to actively and/or passively acquire, track, and monitor airborne, maritime and ground objects. Operates mission equipment, systems, and electronic protection (EP) equipment. Personnel conduct operations and procedures IAW Special Instructions (SPINS), Air Tasking Orders (ATO) and Rules of Engagement (ROE). Sensor Operators continually monitor aircraft and weapons systems status to ensure lethal and non-lethal application of airpower.

1. You’ll need at least 64 general OR a 54 electrical score on the ASVAB

2. There are roughly 1065 people within the AFSC, but I’m sure this career field is expected to grow. 942 males (88.45%) and 123 females (11.55%).

3. Tech School is 4 weeks for Aircrew fundamentals course at Lackland AFB, TX. 21 days UAS Basic Course (tech school) at Randolph AFB, TX. Roughly 21 days for UAS Fundamentals course where you’ll be teamed up with a Pilot pipeline student and go through it as a team. Then you’ll move on to your air frame training at Holloman AFB, NM or Creech AFB, NV

4. Lastly, you’ll earn credits toward a CCAF degree in Air and Space Operations Technology

Some Acronyms used in this show:

• Currencies: Reoccurring training

• Bold Face: Emergency procedures

• GCS: Ground Control Station

• LRE: Launch and Recovery Element

• MCE: Mission Control Element

Links:

Forever Wingman 3E1X1 Page

How to keep in contact:

Email

Facebook

Chick-fil-a First 100 Event:

On a more personal note, my 5-year-old son and I attended our second "Chick-fil-a First 100" event. This time there was WAY more drama. It rained on us at 2am and we got drenched...inside out TENT! It was a blast though! Great memories.

If you ever have a chance to attend one, and can last the 24-hours, then I would highly recommend it! Get more information on the First 100 on the CFA website. 

Want to learn more about the different AFSCs?

Check out the Individual Job pages. Each AFSC has a dedicated page with description, ASVAB requirements, CCAF Degrees, YouTube videos, and more. I created these to help you research what jobs are available to you and which ones meet your career goals.