Hey ryanjon,
reason blank template does not have axis mappings listed as nodes is that you have no axis mappings defined for that project. FPS template has those axis mappings predefined for you, so they are accessible immediately in your Blueprints.
To set up your axis mappings in a blank project, go to Edit > Project Settings. Under Engine > Input, you should see Axis Mappings in Bindings section. Create axis mappings you want, click Set as Default, and then reopen your Character Blueprint. axis mapping nodes will be available now!
Hope that helps!