Air Force Capitol Hill Workshop

The Air Force Capitol Hill Workshop provides a first-hand understanding not only of congressional process and procedure, but also the “culture” that is the United States Congress. Over four days on Capitol Hill, participants can expect to hear from a mix of GAI’s expert faculty, former and current congressional staff, Air Force Office of Legislative Affairs staff, political scientists, elections experts, outside interests, news media, and even Members of Congress.

Participants will receive specifically tailored briefings on the current status and insider analysis of legislative issues of most interest and importance to officials of the Department of the Air Force. Topics range from the issues and politics of the overall Department of Defense authorization and appropriations to the details of specific programs and systems.

Topics may include:

• Leadership and organization in Congress
• Key stages in the authorization process
• The budget and appropriations process
• Congressional committees and floor procedures
• The roles of committee and personal staff
• Congressional oversight of the executive branch
• The relationship between the media and Congress
• The role of special interests in policy formulation
• The role of the Air Force Office of Legislative Affairs

Participants will also attend committee hearings and/or observe floor action when Congress is in session.

Target Audience:

Employees of the Department of the Air Force (GS-11 and above or 02 and above) who have a need for a comprehensive understanding of Congress.

Please note that this course is essentially a tailored version of our Congressional Operations Seminar.

Meets OPM’s Executive Core Qualifications 1, 4, and 5.