WASHINGTON (AFNS) —
Starting with the 22E6 and E5 promotion testing cycles, the Air Force will begin using Situational Judgment Test questions as part of the Promotion Fitness Examination (PFE). This change is an integral part of the overall talent management transformation effort to better align the enlisted promotion system with the Air Force’s foundational competencies and the new Airman Leadership Qualities, as well as provide an agile approach to measuring the diverse knowledge, skills, and experience of Airmen.
“This is another critical step in our talent management transformation, moving us away from using strictly knowledge-based questions while providing more agility in the way we measure the competency level and leadership abilities of our Airmen,” said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, Air Force Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services.
The change decreases PFE knowledge questions from 100 to 60, and adds 20 Situational Judgment Test questions that were derived from a diverse group of behavioral scientists and Senior Enlisted Leaders from across the Air Force. The overall points for the PFE will not change and will still make up 100 points of an Airman’s total score.
For each SJT question on the PFE, examinees will read the description of a situation relevant to their potential rank and duties, examine four possible responses to the situation, and then select the most effective and the least effective response.
Although there are no study references available for the SJT questions, Airmen should continue to familiarize themselves with the Airman Leadership Qualities, foundational competencies, and associated behaviors which will provide a general framework to consider when responding to these types of questions.
“We are constantly looking at ways to better develop and assess Airmen’s skills and abilities,” said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass. “This is another step in the right direction, with more to come.”
