OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- When the base is shut down for weather or a gate is closed for repairs, the fastest way to be informed is by using Air Force Connect, a smart phone app that provides updated notifications to the user.
AF Connect was a finalist in the 2018 Spark Tank competition and made available in 2019, with Air Force organizations at all levels able to deliver timely and relevant information to Airmen.
“The Air Force Connect app is an incredible tool to get information out quickly across Team Offutt,” said Col. Mark Howard, 55th Wing vice commander. “I encourage everyone to download it and stay informed.”
Customized for each installation, AF Connect is free and can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store. Once the app is downloaded, the end user selects their specific installation.
To see base-specific information, select “Favorites” in the lower right-hand corner and tap on “Offutt Air Force Base.” It includes information tailored to the 55th Wing and base tenant units.
The app is tailored for each installation, offering a variety of tabs for general information and up-to-the-minute status alerts on things such as base closures.
“We’ve put a lot of time and effort into the app, but we know there’s still so much more that could be added that would useful,” said Ryan Hansen, 55th Wing public affairs. “We appreciate any feedback from those who have the app if there are things that they would like to see added to make it even more useful.”
Hansen said he hopes those Team Offutt members who do not work in an office setting or those who have minimal computer access download the app, as it is a way for them to stay informed of real-time information.
“Even though the weather has been mild this winter, that can change quickly here in the Midwest, so the app is one tool we can use to help keep everyone informed of potential inclement weather or closures,” he said.