Test Pilot School graduates in high demand Published Aug. 11, 2009 By From 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The next annual U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School selection board is scheduled to convene Sept. 28 through Oct. 2 at the Air Force Personnel Center at Randolph AFB, Texas. The U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School is the world's preeminent fixed-wing test pilot school. Graduates of TPS are in high demand in an era of increasing technology advancements on the battle field. Graduates have a profound influence on the designs of future combat capabilities and ensure mission suitability for use in the field. TPS trains pilots, navigators and engineers to develop, test and evaluate the newest aircraft and weapons systems. The manned pilot selects will fill positions in the fighter, multi-engine and helicopter categories. All others will fill positions in the fighter, multi-engine, and unmanned aerial vehicle categories. New graduates of USAF TPS will be awarded a Master of Science degree in flight test engineering by Air University, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. In addition, USAF TPS conducts exchange programs with the U.S. Navy, United Kingdom and French test pilot schools to train fixed and rotary wing pilots and flight test engineers. Rotary wing pilots and engineers will be assigned to conduct testing on the latest rotary wing systems to include CV-22 and special operations assets. Applicants from all aircraft types and backgrounds must have strong academic and technical experience and a desire to help develop the next generation of Air Force weapons and weapons systems. For more information, visit the TPS website at https://www.edwards.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=6467.