Professional Development

HansCOMICON organizers seeking volunteers for May event 
Organizers are seeking volunteers for the fifth annual HansCOMICON, scheduled for May 8 from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Minuteman Commons.

Officials said the event offers an opportunity for participants to connect with the community while supporting a variety of activities. Volunteer shifts are flexible, allowing individuals time to enjoy the event. Available roles include setup, gaming tournament coordination, panel support, outdoor and indoor activities, crafts, welcome booth support and breakdown.

Those interested in volunteering should email Tech. Sgt. Alycia Hirschberg with their full name, cell phone number and preferred role selections. All volunteers will receive an exclusive HansCOMICON 2026 t-shirt.

Enlisted scholarship opportunity  
The Air & Space Forces Association Paul Revere Chapter is accepting applications for its annual enlisted scholarship program supporting advanced degrees and professional certifications.

The program offers scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 for eligible enlisted Airmen and Guardians from the active-duty, Reserve and National Guard components. Applicants must attend or plan to attend accredited institutions within the United States or its territories.

Application requirements vary by category but include academic records, a one-page personal statement outlining educational goals and background, and, for degree applicants, a letter of recommendation. Certification applicants must submit an essay describing their chosen credential and career goals.

Applications must be submitted via email no later than March 31.

Civilian scholarships available  
The Air & Space Forces Association Paul Revere Chapter is accepting applications for its annual civilian scholarship program supporting advanced degrees and professional certifications. 

The program will award two $750 scholarships to eligible full-time U.S. government civilian employees assigned to Hanscom Air Force Base in grades GS-7 through GS-12, or equivalent pay bands, who are currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program. 

Applicants must submit a one-page essay outlining professional and academic goals, their impact on Air Force or Space Force mission effectiveness, and examples reflecting the association’s pillars of educating, advocating and supporting. Proof of enrollment and basic contact information must also be included. 

Applications must be submitted via email no later than March 31.

Purple Palooza volunteers needed  
Organizers are seeking volunteers for Purple Palooza 2026, scheduled for April 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Minuteman Commons.

The event, which celebrates military children, has received strong community interest, but officials said more volunteers are needed to ensure its success. Open positions include activity facilitators, who will help lead games and engage participants from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and tear-down crew members, who will assist with cleanup and breakdown from 1:50 to 2:30 p.m. Volunteers will receive an exclusive 2026 Purple Palooza T-shirt.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Tech. Sgt. Kaylah Salita via email for more information.

Doolittle Raiders memorial toast planned  
The Air & Space Forces Association Paul Revere Chapter will host a Doolittle Raiders Memorial Toast April 17 at 5:30 p.m. at the Minuteman Commons.

The event commemorates the April 18, 1942, launch of 16 B-25 bombers from the USS Hornet in the first American strike against the Japanese homeland following the Attack on Pearl Harbor. During the ceremony, participants will honor the legacy of the Doolittle Raiders through a traditional toast, continuing a longstanding custom in which the names of the 80 Raiders are remembered. 

Attendees may participate in a ceremonial toast with an alcohol or a nonalcoholic option. Organizers encourage members of the Team Hanscom community to attend. 

Minuteman Chapter of USAFA Alumni Association seeking new members
The Minuteman Chapter of the U.S. Air Force Academy Association of Graduates is actively seeking new members from the local USAFA graduate community. The chapter provides opportunities for networking, mentorship, and continued engagement with the Academy's mission and values.

Interested gradates can contact Chris Herrmann at Christopher.Herrmann.1@us.af.mil for more information or to get involved.

BTZ Mock Board offered to Airmen
Airmen preparing to compete for below-the-zone promotion now have a way to sharpen their board skills through a mock board opportunity. Designed to simulate a real board environment, this professional development initiative offers Airmen a chance to develop their presentation skills, build confidence, and receive constructive feedback from experienced NCOs. Whether aiming to participate as a board member or as a candidate, all are encouraged to get involved in this event.

Reach out to Staff Sgts Darragh Quinn or Natasha Brooks for more information.

Education and Training Center
The Hanscom Education and Training Center serves as the administration of all education and training matters at Hanscom Air Force Base. It supports long range Air Force goals for maintaining a high-quality workforce and enhancing professional/personal development, recruitment, retention, and readiness. The E&TC offers some of the most advanced methods of training available. To learn more, visit https://hanscomfss.com/education-training-center/.

Team Hanscom invited to Toastmasters Club meetings
Improve your public speaking, communication, evaluation and leadership skills with Toastmasters. The Hanscom Toastmasters club meets at the Hanscom Education & Training Center, and via Teams, on the first, second, fourth and fifth Thursdays of each month from noon to 1 p.m.  Everyone ages 18 and up is invited to attend

For more information, contact Gregory C. Laing at 380-456-2623 or gregory.laing@us.af.mil or visit https://hanscom.easy-speak.org/.