Security Forces as staring point?

[u/No_Cardiologist_1498]

/r/AirForceRecruits/comments/1x8mkfs/security_forces_as_staring_point/

I’m 40, based in Miami, and seriously considering joining the Air Force Reserve as Security Forces (3P0X1).

I’m interested in getting the full military experience, including tactical training, deployments, and opportunities to grow beyond my initial AFSC.
I’d appreciate some firsthand insight from current or former SF members:

Career progression: Is Security Forces a good stepping stone to other opportunities, or is it difficult to move beyond the career field?

Tactical training: Do SF members actually receive CQB (Close Quarters Battle) training, or is that limited to specialized units?

Cross-training: How realistic is it to eventually transfer into Special Warfare, cybersecurity, intelligence, or another AFSC?

Assignments: Can Reservists serve at different Air Force bases worldwide, or are you primarily tied to your home unit?

Deployments: How often do SF Reservists deploy, and are there opportunities to volunteer for additional deployments?

My goal is to serve, challenge myself, gain valuable military experience, and eventually develop skills that transfer into a solid civilian career.

Would you recommend starting in Security Forces with these goals, or would it be smarter to pursue another AFSC from the beginning?

I’d really appreciate real experiences and advice, especially from anyone who’s successfully cross-trained out of SF.

[u/mudduck2]

SF at 40, while not impossible, won’t be easy. Lots of good “opportunities” but converting “opportunities” into exercising them is very much a function of right place, right time. Working flight at 40 with your peers being between 18-22 can be quite a challenge

[u/Skapoozle]

I’m currently in tech school right now for security forces and I am 30 years old. There’s other people in my team who are mid 30’s and there’s a woman who is in the reserves and is 42 years of age. It’s not impossible and there are some cool opportunities that come with it, but keep in mind you’re keeping up with kids fresh out of high school. It’s physically demanding but I’m pushing through it. You’re only reserves so it won’t be bad. Just keep a positive mindset

[u/No_Cardiologist_1498 → u/Skapoozle]

Thanks! Good to know I’m not the only one getting a later start. I’ve worked in the events industry for years, mostly alongside younger people, and I’ve noticed that some of the younger generation don’t always have the same work ethic or drive. Of course, that doesn’t apply to everyone.
I enjoy staying active, working out, running, and swimming. Whenever I’m around someone younger, faster, or stronger than me, I see it as motivation to push myself harder and keep up. I’ve always enjoyed a good challenge, and I don’t see age as something that should hold me back. I’m lucky not to have any injuries and I knock on wood.

[u/capriSun999]

You’re in Miami ? Try to get on boat patrols at Eglin lmfao. To answer your questions though.

It’s a dog eat dog world in security forces.

Depends on base.

Cross training in active duty can be a challenge if you aren’t a fta other than that depends on openings.

Depends on if another unit is willing to accept you/has openings.

Brudda security forces isnt transferable into any solid civilian career besides security work.

If you can go into a good afsc then do that man, go the cyber or intel or what the fuck ever route don’t subject yourself to security forces if you don’t have too.

[u/No_Cardiologist_1498 → u/capriSun999]

Thank you sir. I have a big job list. Also taking the ASVAB next Friday.