HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Col. Matthew Poisson, individual mobilization augmentee to the 66th Air Base Group commander, gave a presentation on the IMA program here and explained why it is an option for those looking to continue serving after active duty.
Poisson shared details about his 18 years on active duty as a pilot, test pilot, instructor, operations officer and program manager. Although he enjoyed his Air Force career, his demanding schedule often kept him away from home. That ultimately forced a difficult decision.
“At the 18-year point, I made the decision to punch out of the Air Force and put all my eggs in the reserve basket,” he said. “I needed to be home with my family while the kids were young.”
He explained that the IMA program offers greater flexibility, including telework options and the ability to serve even when geographically separated from an assigned unit.
Unlike traditional reservists, who typically train one weekend a month and two weeks a year, IMAs can consolidate or space out their required days to fit personal and professional schedules.
Tech. Sgt. Misael Torres, the Hanscom AFB in-service reserve recruiter, discussed how the IMA program may be well-suited for people transitioning off of active duty and in career fields with limited vacancies.
“The IMA program is a great option because it allows reservists to fill positions anywhere in the country and it limits the amount of travel while still meeting the annual requirements,” he said.
Because IMAs work directly with active duty units, they are not tied to a unit's specific training schedule.
Poisson also emphasized the importance of completing 20 years of service to earn retirement benefits.
“If you get off active duty at the 10-year point, you don't want to throw those years away,” he said. “You want to get some kind of retirement.”
Retirement eligibility is based on points over time. Reservists must earn 50 points in a year to qualify for a “good year” toward retirement, with opportunities to earn additional points.
Even with reduced participation, IMA members can still meet retirement requirements if they complete the necessary points.
IMA members can retire after 20 years of service, with benefits beginning at age 60. Active-duty time can move the retirement age earlier, but it does not count toward an active-duty retirement.
For more information about the Air Force Reserves, contact Torres at misael.torres.1@us.af.mil, 781-645-2211.
For questions specific to the IMA program, contact Poisson at matthew.poisson.1@us.af.mil.