NO FEAR training deadline looms for Maxwell personnel Published Nov. 9, 2012 By Senior Airman Christopher Stoltz Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala.-- -- By Maxwell civilian employees and military personnel who supervise civilians are required to complete their biannual Notification and Federal Employee Antidiscrimination and Retaliation Act training by Dec. 7. "Our goal is to make individuals aware that agencies are held accountable for violations," said Tech. Sgt. Debrica Jackson, 42nd ABW Equal Opportunity specialist. "Not only are the agencies held accountable, but they are required to inform all employees of any discriminatory claims that have been filed against the agency. It is imperative employees know they are protected." According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website, the training, known as NO FEAR, imposes additional duties upon federal agency employers to reinvigorate their longstanding obligation to provide a work environment free of discrimination and retaliation. One purpose of the training is to require that federal agencies be accountable for violations of anti-discrimination and whistleblower protection laws. New employees must receive the training within 90 days of their appointment, and refresher training is required every two years. "We have a NO FEAR Act training movie that is about 35 minutes long," said Linda Long, 42nd Air Base Wing Equal Opportunity director. "A test is not given at the end of the movie, but questions are allowed. A certificate will be given to attendees for their personnel files." Long said online training is available for those who do not have the time to take the class in person. However, the online version requires the individual to pass a test. "NO FEAR training takes about 30 minutes to complete via computer," she said. "There are 12 questions at the end of the course. A score of at least 70-percent must be made in order to pass the course and generate a certificate." Long said the equal opportunity office needs the assistance of unit training managers and management officials of all levels to ensure 100 percent compliance by Dec. 7, before the holiday season arrives. The is to empower individuals of their rights, not just to add another required annual training. Jackson said many cases of discrimination go unreported due to the fear of losing one's job, often affecting the mission negatively. "Knowing is half the battle," said Jackson. "Individuals and supervisors getting this training become aware of the rights and protection that have been set in place." Personnel should review their organizational information in the Advanced Distribution Learning System in order to receive credit for completing the training. No FEAR training is available on ADLS under the "selected force training" heading. If members do not have access to a computer, they can contact the EO office. For more information, call 953-6010.