The U.S. Air Force and Space Force are offering Airmen and Guardians a unique opportunity to temporarily step away from their active duty careers through the Career Intermission Program (CIP). The application window for the first cycle of Calendar Year 2022 opens on April 1, 2022, inviting eligible personnel to apply for a voluntary break ranging from one to three years. This program is designed to allow service members to pursue personal or professional goals outside of their military service, with a streamlined return to active duty.
Established in 2014, the Career Intermission Program provides a pathway for Airmen and Guardians to transition temporarily to the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) and then seamlessly return to their active duty status afterwards. A significant update for the CY22 program, influenced by the FY22 NDAA, is the revised commitment ratio. Participants entering CIP on or after December 27, 2021, will now accrue a return service obligation of only one month for every month of program participation. This is a change from the previous requirement of two months of service for every month in the program, making it an even more attractive option for those considering a career intermission.
Participants in the Air Force Career Intermission Program 2022 retain valuable benefits during their time away. These include full medical and dental coverage for themselves and eligible dependents, as well as continued access to exchange and commissary privileges. Furthermore, to ease the transition, participants receive a monthly stipend equivalent to one-fifteenth of their basic pay. Travel and transportation allowances are also authorized to facilitate travel to a designated home of selection within the United States at the program’s outset, and again from their home of selection to their next duty station upon returning to active duty.
According to John A. Fedrigo, acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, the Career Intermission Program is a strategic tool for talent retention. The program recognizes that Airmen and Guardians may have periods where focusing on outside pursuits can ultimately enhance their service. “We’ve found that these individuals return to active duty with enhanced experience, relevant education, and a renewed purpose to serve,” Fedrigo stated.
Eligibility for the Career Intermission Program is open to Regular Air Force, “career status” Active Guard/Reserve Airmen, and Space Force Guardians during scheduled application windows. The program also offers flexibility for dual-military couples facing unsupported joint spouse assignments and for Airmen or Guardians encountering humanitarian circumstances, allowing for out-of-cycle CIP consideration. It’s important to note that while the standard payback ratio is now 1:1, specific situations, such as PCS-based ADSCs or ADSCs totaling less than 12 months, might still result in a two-year commitment for a one-year CIP participation. Airmen and Guardians are encouraged to consult with their leadership and career field teams for personalized guidance.
The application window for the first CY22 cycle is from April 1 to May 13, 2022. Detailed information on eligibility criteria, application cycles, and procedures can be found on myPers: https://mypers.af.mil/app/answers/detail/a_id/27945/kw/CIP/p/9. For specific inquiries, the AFPC Career Intermission Program office can be contacted via email at [email protected].
