Eller College student headed to DC to share successes of the Defense Civilian Training Corps
Eller College of Management student, Alana Jones, alongside other members of the U of A Defense Civilian Training Corps pilot program and guest speakers.
Eller Student, Alana Jones BSBA (Management) was introduced to the Defense Civilian Training Corps program, also known as DCTC, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense program by her older sister Akira Jones.
Akira Jones, left, and her sister, Alana.
She applied to the program after learning that students from a variety of academic backgrounds are eligible to participate in the multidisciplinary program. She was accepted as a member of Cohort '26 through a highly competitive selection process and hopes the skills and experiences she gains translate into a successful career as a financial adviser.
"During my time with DCTC, I hope to learn more about what I can do as a business major," Alana said. "I am excited to learn more about the field of financial management within the acquisition system, and how I can play a role in budgeting and managing resources to ensure the warfighter has what they need to accomplish their mission."
The U of A is one of four universities chosen last summer to host the Defense Civilian Training Corps program, also known as DCTC, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense. The ROTC-like program is designed to prepare college students for civilian careers in the Department of Defense acquisition workforce, which includes developing, acquiring, implementing and sustaining new systems, technologies, supplies and services to support national defense.
The U of A was chosen alongside Purdue University, Virginia Tech, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to host the pilot program. In addition to the project-based summer internships, DCTC provides participating students with full tuition, fees reimbursement, a $2,000 monthly stipend and employment with the Department of Defense upon graduation.
DCTC also includes a four-semester curriculum meant to develop Department of Defense critical skills, introduce participants to the defense acquisition system through "gamified learning," and provide hands-on, immersive learning activities on campus. U of A DCTC faculty also partnered with Davis-Monthan Air Force Base and the U.S. Army’s Fort Huachuca for site visits and facilitated guest appearances in class.
A version of this article originally appeared in News.arizona.edu and was originaly written by Logan Burtch-Buus, University Communications.