To become an enlisted member of the Air Force, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
1) U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.
2) Age requirement: be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate before shipping to Basic Military Training (BMT).
3) Physical fitness: meet the Air Force's physical standards, which include passing a physical examination and meeting certain height, weight, and vision requirements.
4) Education: Have a high school diploma, GED certificate, or be scheduled to receive one before shipping to BMT.
5) Criminal history: applicants must not have a felony conviction or certain types of misdemeanors.
6) Moral character: applicants must exhibit good moral character and pass a background check.
If an individual meets these basic requirements, they can enlist in the Air Force through a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), where they will undergo further medical screening, complete paperwork, and select their desired career field.
It's worth noting that the Air Force does offer an Air Force Junior ROTC program in high schools, but participation in this program does not guarantee acceptance into the Air Force or provide any preferential treatment during the enlistment process.