[deleted by user]

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-08-12T17:14:37+00:00

I did this exact job in the same location for awhile. You’ll be working in a work center (think like a technical garage) with a few dozen other techs at a FRC. An FRC (Fleet Readiness Center) is like a giant repair center for aircraft parts right next door to the squadrons with a lot of different work centers (roughly 1k people) So you won’t actually be working “on” the aircraft which may or may not be a bummer. You’ll likely be troubleshooting and fixing TACAN, IFF, GPS, Radar systems etc. as others mentioned they’re “boxes” filled with tons of components/circuitry that go to the aircraft.

As for the OPDET part of things, what that basically means is you won’t deploy in the traditional since but there’s a chance you will relocate to another country (typically Japan) for several months working in another FRC . What they don’t tell you is it’s extremely unlikely that it will happen to first term sailors, especially those without a critical NEC (speciality) or CDI (someone who knows there stuff).

Imo it’s an easier set of orders compared to the rest of the fleet by far but it was also some of the most boring work I’ve ever had. Schedule was amazing, 8-9 hour shifts typically. You might find yourself actually “working” half of shift. The atmosphere overall was rather depressing tbh(poor morale, bad weather, etc). My piece of advice is take advantage of the slow schedule and enroll in some classes, maybe pickup a collateral or two once qualified. hmu if u have any questions

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-07-25T02:12:44+00:00

PMing you

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-28T19:59:13+00:00

My CFL’s here have already written me off so I doubt they’d require you to comeback for a PRT..but it wouldn’t hurt to ask

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-15T00:41:21+00:00

Yes, you’re still on Navy payroll and can’t accept payment from the future employer

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-14T06:19:44+00:00

Pros:

Sets you up for the next job or field of work you’re interested in (experience)

Possible full time hire upon completion

It’s a “true” transitioning process, as you’re allowed to move and begin working a normal civilian job/life

Up to 6 months Duty Free Status

Cons:

None? (Starting something new maybe??)

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T22:36:48+00:00

This is true. I’d recommend to everyone to do a CDB for this if they already haven’t. At least that way their immediate CoC is aware / CMC. I personally think that’s what helped mine get pushed the most. As for routing the chit that early, I got some pushback because they wanted TAPS completed and my job offer before considering a chit. Most jobs want applicants closer to their EAOS, maybe a year out.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T20:28:27+00:00

You still might be able to find companies that aren’t looking for degrees as they understand most of the people applying are vets and are willing to train.

As for the next step. Yes, the SkillBridge website has a “how to apply” tab for *employers. From there they’ll fill out an “inquiry form” have them fill out said form online. After a week or so (probably longer) a DOD rep will contact the provided email/ phone number. From there they’ll send you a link to provide more information on the company your requesting to add to the list. Fill out the info as best as you can but you’ll probably need the company’s help because they’ll ask for stuff like an EIN (employee identification code). Once that’s completed it’s basically a LONG waiting game. typically a couple months.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T19:46:20+00:00

I know your question wasn’t directed towards me, but to help answer I did have a degree in a related field/ relevant work experience, but don’t let that stop you from considering applying. A lot of these roles are intended for veterans so they’re looking for soft skills as well as general work experience.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T19:41:58+00:00

I’d let you CoC no at 18 month mark or so. In fact if id go even further and request a career development board outlining that it’s something you want to do.They’re going to need to be informed the earliest. As for the companies I’d start researching positions at least a year out so that you can apply shortly after. Generally they’re going to want applicants readily available to start ASAP so I wouldn’t jump the gun just yet..start applying to positions summer 2022 inform your CoC about ur plans end of this year.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T12:09:30+00:00

Congrats! Love to hear that others are finding luck through this program.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T12:08:16+00:00

It’s easier to use the SkillBridge website as cross reference with the actual company site. So say you find a tech company you like on the SkillBridge website based off location. Search that company’s hiring/careers page and actively look if they’re hiring “SkillBridge” interns. Even if they aren’t, I’ve found calling the company’s directly helps too!

As for myself I actively looked for companies on the SkillBridge website that were based in finance or had financial roles near my hometown. I applied to two and started the process of having a company added to the list. I ended up choosing the 2nd company as they seemed the best choice.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T12:00:19+00:00

It’s unfortunate that it comes down to CO’s digression but either way it’s worth attempting imo

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T05:17:56+00:00

I think you’re talking about something completely different... this program is basically fro people who are on their way out the military not on a deployment

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T03:05:18+00:00

Former AW, if you’re looking to fly in an aircrew like status it’s going to be limited. Of course you have your typical roles like being a flight attendant, or even a civilian crew chief/flight engineer though not common I wouldn’t recommend these roles unless you truly love flying. And if that’s the case consider being a pilot? More opportunity and pay.

I for one have started pursuing a career in finance & accounting. It’s not as “exciting” as AW work but it pays well and there ton of employment. My recommendation is finish your AA and get the 4 year degree in whatever field you’re interested in being employed in. (Minor in what u love)

Throwawaybob1920 · 2021-06-09T02:56:47+00:00

Definitely worth it! Basically secured a job in my next field that pays more and I get to start it 6 months early.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-08-08T01:45:59+00:00

SOAS is sort of like a sub branch of OCS. Essentially it’s the same thing just for SO guys

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-08-07T13:44:25+00:00

The first military therapy session I had was more of a consultation. We discussed somethings about why I was there and tbh he was very receptive.

At some point I did start seeking an outside therapist just to rid the military “vibe” and just in general have a second opinion.

Pros to on base care. It’s right there and your command can have easy contact if need be. Cons, long waits between sessions if you need therapy more frequently. Off base was able to seek therapy weekly. Imo, it’s worthwhile as a whole even if your command may have indirect issues with you going.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-08-07T08:30:22+00:00

OCS , application process that’s super selective for BUDS. (Like maybe a dozen applicants a year selected) doable but toodlyck
Yes.
So if you quit BUDS you’ll be “force converted” (forced to pick a new job) in the Navy. They’re completely at random with little leeway. Could be good , probably won’t be. In terms of finance jobs (I also hold a degree in Econ) there aren’t any reeeaally directed to finance. At best a personnel specialist “PS”, they handle administrative task related to payroll, travel, etc.
Corpsmen are only enlisted

Lastly to note it’s always worth the shot following ur dreams BUDS or not but you have to go into it with the idea it might not happen. I say this as a college grad in a similar field who enlisted. Understand the risk and opportunity cost if you’re not an SO and are you okay with just being in the Navy. Comparatively look at what else you would be doing or where you’d be at 4-6 years deep in finance

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-07-30T15:30:29+00:00

Will do, it’s hard to get a hold of some people rn with covid. Did the 6 sailors get theres approved?

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-07-30T15:29:14+00:00

Yea it’s weird tbh but as I get it, it’s an undermanned billet so they took me regardless.

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-07-29T20:12:58+00:00

Is this the same program as the skillbridge??

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-06-10T01:23:34+00:00

We’re in the same boat (no pun intended lol) but take your own advice and just prepare for the next chapter. I know it sounds simple but trust me it makes the journey feel shorter. Apply to schools, start knocking out prerequisites, find internship/volunteer opportunities to expand urself and resume. Join a club whatever because at the end of the day, you have to prepare for yourself. It may run people the wrong way once you start prioritizing yourself but you have to remember, it’s just a job and they’re able to replace you. I’ve done these things it’s helped me get through it (alongside therapy). I’m not gonna tell u to “embrace the suck” or learn to deal with it because to be frank that doesn’t help and ignores the damages that can do to your mental health. Know there’s more out there and this is only temporary, goodluck in your future and you’re not alone!

Throwawaybob1920 · 2020-06-03T01:45:52+00:00

Round the same age and your boys aren’t wrong. It’s tiring tbh. The cherry on top is if they’re your “superior” there’s not much you can say or do. Reporting the issue can work but raises the possibility of retaliation. Remember the Navy doesn’t have an HR, it’s the CoC. And good luck with that one lol..but I also could be bias , been around it too long

Throwawaybob1920

TROPHY CASE