Should I travel to a different country just for a SSG slot?

The bottom line is that working as e E5 in a E6 spot will help with career progression. When it’s coming up for time to PCS, it’s good to not go all in on one place and keep your mind flexible. The higher you get, sometimes the less there is available. Sometimes it’s finding a balance between where you want to be and what is going to benefit your career.

I see your profile says you are in Hawaii. If you have the luxury of selecting your next PCS location, I would base this selection on your stated goal of becoming a SGM. My guess is a Cable Systems Installer is needed at almost all major Army installations and some Joint facilities. I think you should look for units in CONUS that are large enough to allow you additional leadership opportunities building your experience and resume for SSGT. As far as your educations goals go, most major Army and Joint Installations have university extension programs that will allow you to complete your Bachelors Degree.

Your personal preferences will play into locations selection (again, if you have a lot of latitude in where you go). You could choose to live near family. You could choose a climate you like. For example: Mountains, Ft Carson. If your MOS thrives on large installations, go to Ft Bragg, NC or Ft Hood, TX. If working in large Headquarters facilities would enhance your opportunities, consider Ft Bragg, Scott AFB, IL, Huntsville area, ,AL, Washington DC area, or MacDill AFB, FL.

If you are married and have children will they go with you? If yes I would do it. I worked for the Postal Service for 32 years and the last 12 were in Management. I was divorced and my daughters were adults. By making myself available and 3 moves I ended up with a nice retirement. I am able to help my daughters when needed and that is a great satisfaction. Whatever your situation is don’t listen to sea lawyers that offer negative advice. Increase your income it Increases social security income for later. Before I joined the Marines I heard it all. I made my choice and ended up living in Central America and Europe working as a Marine Security Guard with a Diplomatic passport. When I left the Corp I heard it all again from sea lawyers. I made my choice and ended up retiring with 37 years of total government service from the Corp and postal service. I am not bragging about this. I just perceive you are trying to better yourself by asking this question. I wanted you to see how making these kind of decisions can Benefit you. In the end your choice is up to you and your happiness is important too. Good luck!!!