Intro
Discover how to join the Air National Guard after 40 with these 5 proven paths. Learn about age waivers, prior service opportunities, and medical requirements. Get insider tips on meeting the ANGs physical and education standards, and explore alternative enlistment options for older candidates. Start your midlife career change today!
Joining the Air National Guard (ANG) can be a highly rewarding experience, offering a mix of service to one's country, camaraderie, and personal development opportunities. While the majority of individuals who join the ANG do so in their younger years, there are pathways for those over 40 to join as well. It's essential to understand that joining the ANG after 40 can be more challenging due to the physical demands and age restrictions, but it's not impossible. Here, we'll outline five ways to potentially join the Air National Guard after 40, emphasizing the importance of careful planning, preparation, and understanding the specific requirements and opportunities available.
Before You Begin: Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specific ways to join, it's crucial to understand the basics of ANG service. The ANG is a reserve component of the United States Air Force, comprising citizen-airmen who typically serve one weekend a month and two weeks a year. The Guard supports both federal and state missions, requiring members to be prepared to deploy if needed. The physical and mental demands of ANG service are significant, so it's essential to assess your readiness for this commitment carefully.
1. Meet the Basic Requirements
To start, you need to meet the basic requirements for joining the ANG, which include:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being between the ages of 17 and 39 (with some exceptions for those up to 45, depending on the role and your qualifications)
- Being a high school graduate or having an equivalent certificate
- Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
- Passing a physical fitness test
For those over 40, age waivers are sometimes possible but are considered on a case-by-case basis. If you're over 40, you'll need to convince the ANG that your skills, experience, and physical condition justify an age waiver.
2. Find Age Waiver Opportunities
Certain roles within the ANG are more likely to consider applicants over 40, especially those requiring specialized skills or experience that are in short supply. This can include professionals in the medical field, chaplains, and cybersecurity experts, among others. If you have skills that are highly valued by the ANG, you may be able to secure an age waiver.
Additionally, the ANG sometimes offers " Prior Service" programs for individuals who have served in the military before. If you have prior military service, you might find it easier to join the ANG, even if you're over 40.
3. Prepare Physically and Mentally
Regardless of your age, joining the ANG requires meeting strict physical fitness standards. This includes passing the Air Force Physical Fitness Test, which assesses your ability to perform exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. If you're over 40, it's especially crucial to start preparing yourself physically well in advance of your application.
Mental preparation is also key. Joining the ANG involves a significant commitment, including the possibility of deployment. Ensuring you and your family are prepared for the potential demands of ANG service is essential.
4. Network and Seek Guidance
Networking with current or former ANG members can provide valuable insights into the application process and life in the ANG. Additionally, speaking with a recruiter is essential for understanding the current opportunities and challenges in joining. They can offer advice tailored to your situation, including information on available age waivers and the most suitable roles given your age and experience.
5. Be Persistent and Flexible
Joining the ANG after 40 can be challenging, and persistence is key. Be prepared to face rejections or delays and remain flexible in your approach. This might involve considering different roles or units within the ANG or being open to attending additional training to enhance your qualifications.
Gallery of ANG Roles and Responsibilities
Air National Guard Image Gallery
Invitation to Engage
Joining the Air National Guard after 40 is undoubtedly a challenging but rewarding path. If you're considering this journey, we invite you to engage with current ANG members, attend information sessions, and explore the wealth of resources available online. Share your own experiences or questions in the comments section below, and let's continue the conversation on how to successfully join the ANG, regardless of age.