Don’t Leave $4,500 on the Table: Use AF COOL to Get Certified with Cyberkraft

Air Force and Space Force members can now use their AF COOL funding to earn industry-leading cybersecurity certifications through Cyberkraft.

FFor members of the U.S. Air Force or Space Force, professional development isn’t just a personal goal – it’s mission-critical. The Air Force Credentialing Opportunities Online (AF COOL) program empowers enlisted Airmen and Guardians to obtain civilian-recognized certifications that strengthen both their military careers and post-service opportunities.

Cyberkraft is an official AF COOL-approved training vendor, and service members can use their AF COOL funds to access comprehensive, live-instructor-led training for the most in-demand cybersecurity certifications in the industry. Whether you’re transitioning out of the service or enhancing your skill set while in uniform, Cyberkraft offers the expertise and support to help you make the most of your COOL benefits.

What Is the AF COOL Program?

The Air Force Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (AF COOL) program provides opportunities for enlisted members of the Air Force and Space Force to earn industry-recognized professional credentials and licenses. The program is part of the Air Force Virtual Education Center.

Funded by the Department of Defense, AF COOL provides up to $4,500 per person for approved certifications, training courses, study materials, and exam fees.

The program supports:

AFSC-related certifications: Credentials tied directly to your current military job.
Leadership and management credentials: Certifications like CompTIA Project+ for professional development.
Transitional credentials: Training that prepares you for a successful civilian career.

By helping you earn credentials that are respected in the private sector, AF COOL ensures that your military training has lasting value – whether you stay in uniform or not.

Who Is Eligible for AF COOL?

The AF COOL is a Total Force Enlisted program. It includes all enlisted Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs) for Active Duty Air Force and Space Force. All members participating in the AF COOL program must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Possess a 5-skill level in their Primary AFSC
Do not have an Unfavorable Information File (UIF), are not on a Control Roster, and are current on their most recent Fitness test at the time of application

You can use AF COOL to earn one credential per career field and one leadership/management certification, plus additional credentials if required for transition preparation or mandatory certification. For further information related to eligibility and how to start your funding request, contact Cyberkraft or go to the My Air Force Benefits page.to eligibility and how to start your fund request, contact Cyberkraft or go to the My Air Force Benefits page.

Some of the Most Requested Cybersecurity Certifications in AF COOL

The AF COOL program provides funding for numerous cybersecurity certifications, but certain credentials consistently rank among the most popular choices for military personnel. These certifications align with both military cybersecurity requirements and civilian career opportunities, offering Airmen and Guardians a pathway to advance their skills while building marketable expertise for future transitions.

CompTIA Security+ is the foundational certification for military cybersecurity professionals and a good first step for those new to the field. Required for many Department of Defense positions, Security+ covers essential security concepts, risk management, and compliance requirements. This certification serves as the baseline for most cybersecurity roles and is often the first step for Airmen and Guardians transitioning from other AFSCs into cybersecurity fields.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) from EC-Council focuses on ethical hacking techniques and is valuable for those involved in penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. This certification teaches Airmen and Guardians how to think like malicious hackers, enabling them to defend their organizations’ networks and systems better. The hands-on nature of CEH training appeals to many military professionals who prefer practical, mission-focused learning.

CompTIA CySA+ focuses on threat detection, analysis, and response. These skills directly align with many Air Force cybersecurity positions. This certification bridges the gap between foundational security knowledge and advanced threat-hunting capabilities, making it highly valuable for Airmen and Guardians in cyber operations roles.

PMI CAPM is for entry-level project managers who want to prove they understand key project management concepts, tools, and techniques. Once you earn your certification, it will position you for a long-term career within the industry. For Airmen and Guardians beginning to lead projects or considering careers in program management, CAPM builds your credibility and opens doors to long-term opportunities in both military and civilian sectors.

PMI PMP is for experienced project managers. It shows that you have the skills necessary to lead teams, manage timelines and budgets, and deliver business results for your employer. It is the gold standard in project management certifications and will set you up for a stellar career within many different industries. If you’re already managing missions, teams, or budgets, PMP validates your leadership skills and prepares you for high-level project management roles across a wide range of industries.

ISACA CISM is your chance to become a trusted decision maker with the world’s premier information security management certification. Cyberkraft’s official ISACA CISM bootcamp will fully prepare you to become a recognized information security manager. For those looking to move into cybersecurity leadership roles, CISM equips Airmen and Guardians with the strategic decision-making skills to manage and secure complex information systems.

Choose Cyberkraft For Your AF COOL Benefits

Cyberkraft is more than just another online training provider. As a veteran-owned and operated company, Cyberkraft understands the unique needs of military personnel and delivers results that match.

Here’s what makes Cyberkraft the smart choice for your AF COOL training:

Live Instructor-Led Training

Cyberkraft offers live, hands-on bootcamps led by certified cybersecurity experts. You’ll get real-time instruction, access to your instructor for questions, and weekly mentoring sessions to help you stay on track.

Flexible Training Delivery

We recognize the unpredictable nature of your military schedule, so we also offer self-paced online modules in addition to our virtual instructor-led bootcamps that can accommodate deployments, exercises, and duty requirements.

Certification Guarantee

Cyberkraft stands by its training with a 100% First Pass guarantee. If you don’t pass your certification exam on the first try, you’ll receive a free exam retake.

Military-Friendly Support

Cyberkraft knows how to navigate the AF COOL system and will help you complete your education plan, submit your funding request, and get everything approved. You’ll never have to navigate the process alone.

Career-Aligned Certifications

Cyberkraft offers training for AFSC-aligned and leadership certifications like:

CompTIA Security+
CompTIA A+, Network+, and CySA+
EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
ISACA CISM, CISA, and CRISC
PMI CAPM and PMP

All courses are mapped to DoD 8140/8570 requirements, ensuring you meet both military and civilian job standards.

Lifetime Course Access

Once you’re a Cyberkraft student, you have lifetime access to your training materials, video lessons, practice tests, and support forums. Even after you pass your exam, you can revisit the material to stay sharp.

Preparing for Life After the Military With AF Cool

Even if you’re not planning to separate anytime soon, it’s never too early to start building a foundation for your post-military career. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing job markets in the world, with over 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions worldwide in 2025.

Using your AF COOL benefits to earn certifications now can:

Open the door to six-figure careers in government and private industry
Set you apart in promotion boards and evaluations
Give you options if your military career path shifts unexpectedly
Make your transition to civilian life smoother and more successful

Your Path to Cybersecurity Certification with AF Cool Starts Here

Cyberkraft is proud to be an approved AF COOL vendor and to serve those who serve. We’re ready to help you use your AF COOL benefits to gain real-world skills, earn top-tier credentials, and advance your career – both in and out of uniform.

Ready to get started? We’re standing by to walk you through the AF COOL process and get you enrolled in the certification training that’s right for you.

Contact Cyberkraft today to schedule your free consultation.