A number of comparisons can be made from the charts. These reports are another tool in the commander s retention tool kit, she said. Commanders can then use this tool, along with their Career Assistance Advisors, to find out what the specific retention issues are at their base. Air Force surveys tell us that the top five reasons members leave the Air Force are availability of civilian jobs, pay and allowances, recognition, leadership at unit level, and overall job satisfaction, she said. Three of the items on the list are under the commander s control, that s why we re sending them this report.
Surveys also suggest that individuals make reenlistment decisions a year or more in advance.
The economy, the ratio of military to civilian wages, changes to retirements and other benefits programs, promotion rates, Air Force Specialty Code mix, and geographic location are all parts of the retention equation. Armed with this report, and the assistance of the Career Assistance Advisors, commanders can now share information on programs that are working at their bases. For more information on the R-Status report or local retention initiatives, contact your Career Assistance Advisor.