AFMC prepares for early retirements and separations

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HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  Air Force Materiel Command and Hill Air Force Base have begun the early preparations for a fiscal year 2011/12 VERA/VSIP incentive program.

VERA/VSIP stands for Voluntary Early Retirement Authority/Voluntary Separation Incentive Program. The VERA/VSIP, which will be publicized to the entire workforce, will be used to reduce manpower to meet current and upcoming budget constraints.

As defense dollars become more constrained, the Air Force is seeking ways to better balance resources and answer the Department of Defense's call for greater efficiencies, said John Steenbock, AFMC's Director of Manpower, Personnel and Services.

"Given fiscal challenges facing AFMC and the Air Force, it is prudent we take these actions," Steenbock said.

If preparatory events prove positive, he said, AFMC will seek authority for the incentive program to be offered later this year. Incentives may include up to $25,000 depending on various employment factors.

"We will be looking for a way to reduce the workforce while keeping it balanced so we maintain sufficient strength in all our mission areas," Steenbock said. "This is only one of the approaches the command is taking to achieve a balanced, reduced end-strength."

As of early this month, Steenbock said AFMC has also implemented hiring controls across the entire command. The command is now hiring to fill only one position for every two that become vacant, as well as focusing on hiring in critical mission areas only.

He said this policy does not affect current hiring actions with a selection and/or established entrance-on-duty date. The overall intent, Steenbock said, is to reduce the impact of a potential Reduction in Force which may become necessary if AFMC has no other alternative to meet its manpower budget requirements.

Local personnel officials said Hill AFB's hiring policies may differ from the above, so those with questions should consult with their organization.

More details about a VERA/VSIP will be announced as they become available.