Air Force ROTC Detachment 490 was established in 1949 at the Newark College of Engineering in Newark, New Jersey. The Newark College of Engineering transformed into the New Jersey Institute of Technology while always supporting the Air Force ROTC mission. For over 65 years, Air Force ROTC Detachment 490 has been training and commissioning new leaders, as 2nd Lieutenants, for the United States Air Force. Air Force ROTC Detachment 490 has always been considered a small detachment. However, over the last few semesters the detachment has grown. With a growing cadet corps, the expectations and quality of work continue to climb to a higher standard.
Detachment 490 offers incredible leadership training to prepare you for a successful future as a commissioned officer in the United States Air Force. Besides providing cadets with quality Leadership Lab sessions, Detachment 490 offers additional training to develop the knowledge and skills needed to surpass your peers. Whether it is the Nighthawk Honor Guard Drill Team, Arnold Air Society, or Supplementary Military Training sessions, Detachment 490 gives cadets the tools to succeed.
Located in the heart of the Tri-state area and with nine crosstown schools to choose from, Detachment 490 contains a highly diverse group of student cadets. The Cadet Corps focuses on the Air Force Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do, and principles, including "never leave an Airman behind." The bonds and friendships that you make in this program will follow you throughout your academic career and even after you graduate. This detachment is not only an opportunity to jump start your career as an Air Force Officer, but an opportunity to join something more than just a program - a family.
