Air University education database down

by Scott Knuteson
Air University Public Affairs

5/26/2010 - MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. (AFNS) -- A computer system managing various aspects of Air Force member's education experienced a serious technical malfunction May 13, impacting Air University distance learning, related education records and test control facilities Air Force-wide.

Enlisted and officer distance learning for professional military and continuing education, testing and delivery of enlisted career development courses, and various specialty courses are specifically affected.

A team of technicians is working to restore the system to a fully functioning state. In the interim, a number of workarounds are being implemented to mitigate the effects of the system breakdown.

"We're working around the clock to get the system back online," said Col. Anthony Zucco, the Air University Education Logistics and Communications director. "Our goal is to minimize the impact on our Airmen, specifically their ability to access records and continue with their educational endeavors."

If a student completed coursework or finalized a test prior to May 13, the data may have successfully posted to their record. Active-duty Airmen can check the Air Force Personnel Center website and Air Guard or Reserve Airmen can check the Air Reserve Personnel Center's website to ensure all education data has posted.

The failing system, known as the Course Development, Student Administration and Registrar system has an effect on personnel actions since many actions partially rely on education data and verification.

Of particular importance is the ability for upcoming promotion board members to verify graduations and course completions since May 13, according to officials. Some senior NCOs needing verification of Senior NCO Academy completion for their senior rater endorsements may also experience difficulty accessing those records. Many Air University distance-learning students may be unable to complete testing at their local test control facility since testing prerequisites and scores are primarily accessed through the downed system.

Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard majors scheduled to meet the lieutenant colonel board in June can contact the Air University Registrar at au.cfro@maxwell.af.mil with any concerns regarding education records. An active-duty enlisted supplemental board scheduled for June won't require updating. The next enlisted board, for chief master sergeants, will not be until October.

Airmen with questions about the status of their personnel records can contact the Total Force Service Center at 800-525-0102