(This was sent to all IMAs and PIRRs 10 Aug 2024. If you did not receive it in your personal email, please log in to the vMPF and make sure you have a good personal email in that system.)
The RIO Buzz Vol 76
We're facing the same old problem with accessing AROWS-R again. According to AFRC/FM, it seems to be a widespread network issue that's causing connectivity problems when trying to access AROWS-R from a .com environment. However, they assure us that VPN (JRSS), USAF VPN, and Desktop Anywhere are all working for accessing AROWS-R. Unfortunately, there's no telling how long it will take to resolve the issue, but rest assured, we'll keep you posted. HERE is a link to the list of workarounds if you need them.
That said, this Buzz emphasizes FY25 planning. As FY24 comes to an end, we need you to plan ahead. You should schedule your FY25 IDTs in UTAPS (Quick Guide HERE) now, and while you do that, make a plan for your FY25 Annual Tour duty. This scheduling process forms your ‘IR battle rhythm’. If you are new at creating a battle rhythm, I invite you to read our suggestions found in the “Staying Reserve Ready for FY25” section of this Buzz.
Like in recent fiscal years, there are known and unknown funding aspects. We cannot predict how this process will unfold, when we might have a budget, or if we might operate under contingency resolution constraints. Nevertheless, planning ahead can help you maintain readiness during unpredictable times.
Your FY25 planning also enables us to budget effectively. The better you plan, the better we can execute to ensure all IRs maintain their readiness.
So, we ask you to plan ahead, so we can all stay Reserve Ready.
Now, the Buzz …
STAYING RESERVE READY FOR FY25
Planning for FY25 begins NOW! The IDT UTAPS calendar for FY25 is available for scheduling next fiscal year’s IDTs. Remember, the deadline to have your IDTs scheduled in UTAPS is 15 Aug 24. As you schedule your IDTs, it is equally important for you to start planning next year’s annual tour.
To create your IR battle rhythm, consider asking yourself the following questions:
- When is my PT test due?
- When is my Periodic Health Assessment Questionnaire (PHAQ) due? More information, visit HERE.
- Are there any CBT deadlines to remember?
- When is my annual dental exam?
- What is my R/R date? More information, visit HERE.
- How can I satisfy my R/R requirement and meet my fiscal year requirements? What is my ‘sweet spot’?
Taking these factors into account in your planning will ensure you remain Reserve Ready throughout the year even when you’re not performing duty.
In case you’re uncertain about how to identify your ‘sweet spot’ for having a good participation year, we encourage you to watch the “Finding Your Sweet Spot” video available
HERE.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mark your calendars! Next IR All Call is scheduled for Tuesday, 4 Sep 24 at 1100 MT via ZoomGov. Link -
https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1615759619?pwd=M3KFsrSrYV1bXAsdWpxL691PZGLw9m.1.
IR Strategy Office and HQ RIO support Reserve Training Assemblies (RTAs). Leaders from the IR Strategy Office and HQ RIO teamed up this year to support several RTAs where IMAs gathered to learn more about policies and programs related to being an IMA and to get some needed Ready Airman Training. Read more about these RTAs in the most recent edition of Citizen Airman here:
Reserve Training Assemblies Unite IMAs > Air Force Reserve Command > Feature Article (af.mil) and stay tuned to the RIO Buzz for future RTA dates/events.
AFRC WARNORD. The Chief of the Air Force Reserve published WARNORD #2024-01, outlining the plan for the Combat Wing and IMA Strategic Alignment implementation. No need to do anything at this time for the IR population, but we’re expecting the next CAFR TASKORD to be released in the next couple weeks, and just like previously, we’ll need to get 100% acknowledgement from the entire IR population. HQ RIO will lead the effort for 100% accountability, but the specific method of execution is still in the works. You can read WARNORD #2024-01
HERE.
AROWS-R issues. While a few IRs have experienced difficulties in accessing AROWS-R from their personal computers, it is worth noting that AFRC has not identified any pervasive problems yet. Nevertheless, alternative methods, such as Desktop Anywhere, remain effective options for accessing AROWS-R from personal computers. Visit link
HERE for more alternative options.
Integrated Lodging Program. In order to receive full reimbursement for any lodging associated with IDT or TDY travel, all reservists are required to utilize authorized accommodations. Failing to do so could result in members having to cover a portion of their lodging expenses personally. Should you decide to arrange lodging outside of the Defense Travel System (DTS), it is crucial that it aligns with the Integrated Lodging Program (ILP) standards. Otherwise, your reimbursement will be restricted. In circumstances where government quarters at ILP locations are unavailable, privatized lodging on the installation should be your next choice. If that option is also not feasible, choose a
Department of Defense (DoD) Preferred lodging hotel. However, if a member opts for a DoD Preferred lodging hotel despite the availability of government quarters or privatized lodging, reimbursement will be subject to limitations.
RPA/MPA OPPORTUNITIES
HQ NORAD and USNORTHCOM.
Desired Grade: Any officer (38F) or enlisted (3F) who can access MilPDS (3F071/3F091 preferred, but negotiable).
Location: HQ NORAD and USNORTHCOM, Peterson SFB, Colorado.
Description of Position: Reserve Manager; oversees personnel systems for 90 Reserve IMAs; Must have access to MilPDS, AFPROMS, (and M4S would be incredibly helpful). Manages orders, promotions, JTMD, and personnel issues.
Additional Info: No PCS funds; must be local.
Type of Funding: MPA.
Remote/Telework: No.
Report Date: ASAP.
Duration: 60 to 180 days (can be negotiable and flexible). Please submit the following documents (Career Data Brief and resume) to the Col Michelle Ruehl at
michelle.c.ruehl.mil@mail.mil or 719-554-8904.
Space Force S1 Office. Looking for the following AFSCs for potential MPA orders with the Space Force S1 office: 38F, 3F0, 3F5, 13S, 65F/W, 15A, 16R, 35P, 63A, 17D, 1C6, 1NX, 3N0 and 6F.
Start: 1 Oct 24 -1 Jan 25.
Tour length: 365.
Remote: with some travel (job dependent) and in office/Telework (locality specific). If interested, please send the following information to
christian.picard@us.af.mil: Copy of last 3 performance reports, current CDB, latest Physical Fitness Assessment history, and ARCNet Readiness printout.
GigEagle. Interested in opportunities to work in your Air Force Reserve capacity? Leverage your civilian/military/volunteer skillsets and connect with organizations seeking short-term support on the DoD's newest talent-matching platform, GigEagle!
GigEagle is open to all Reserve and Guard members as both gig workers and owners. Join the Agile Talent Ecosystem as an early adopter by creating a profile today at
https://gigeagle.mil.
Gigs can be compensated in a variety of ways, including orders funded by the owning organization (ex: MPA, RPA), Annual Tour or IDTs (when appropriate and approved), or on a points-only basis.
What is GigEagle?
- An AI-enabled platform matching DoD talent to need at the speed of relevancy
- A voluntary system for those who want to opt in
- A way to discover previously untapped talent for your unit or organization
- Available to Reserve Component members as gig workers and gig owners
- Available to all military members and DoD government civilians as gig owners
Getting Started
- Logon to https://gigeagle.mil for the first time using a CAC reader or government computer
- Go mobile! Once registered, the site is accessible via Okta verify without a CAC and mobile-enabled
- Create your profile by uploading a resume or connecting your LinkedIn account
Join the movement as we transform talent agility in the DoD and pursue whole-of-nation collaboration for national security.
Have questions or want to book a demo for your organization? Contact Maj Meredith Kirchoff at meredith.kirchoff.1@us.af.mil.
v/r,
Col Nathan “N8” Day
HQ RIO Commander