MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Are you on the right track? If so, are you moving forward?

 Are you happy with the position you're in? Do you have a plan for success? 

More specifically, do you have your Community College of the Air Force associate's degree?

 If not, have you completed any courses or tests this year to get you credit toward your CCAF or bachelor's degree? 

Time will continue to pass. It's what you choose to do with that time that can change your entire life. 

I've spoken with many senior noncommissioned officers who are retiring, and they've shared some experiences they encountered in the interview process. 

One in particular noted that the interview did not even start until the interviewer determined he had his bachelor's degree. 

Did you know you can get college credit for what you already know? 

The education office provides tests that you can take to earn college credit toward your CCAF or bachelor's degree. Have you ever heard of College Level Examination Program, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support or Excelsior exams? 

These tests are free for active duty, and you can take these without studying. If you choose to study first, you can check out study materials at the library to prepare before the test. 

My recommendation, just go take it the first time and see how you do.

 There are so many tests you can take. If you need a particular one and don't pass, you can study for it the next time ... and know what to study for.

 If you pass, you just earned free college credit for about 60 to 90 minutes of your time. 

If you did not pass, you can take it again in six months or take a class to get that credit. 

Lastly, you can either take them here at McChord or at Fort Lewis. At Fort Lewis you can actually find out if you passed right on the spot. 

One Airman in the 62nd Logistics Readiness Squadron completed more than 30 credit hours toward his CCAF degree in just 30 days. 

He's waiting on results from his speech CLEP which will complete his requirements for his CCAF. 

Are you just missing your speech requirement for your CCAF? Did you know that some local colleges offer online speech courses that tuition assistance covers. 

Don't wait until it's too late. It's never too late. Get on it now. 

The jobs will continue to become more difficult and the responsibilities greater. 

If not now, then when? Figure out what you need to do to complete your CCAF degree and start taking the appropriate steps to get that done.