BN TAC position… good or bad?

2021-12-07T05:52:37-05:00

My PL time is coming to a close, as well with my BN CDR’s command time. My BN CDR gave me the word today that I will be the next CDR’s TAC…is this a good or bad thing?
Frankly, I don’t know this position well enough to make a read on it - I am aware that BN TAC is like an aide to the commander and manages his calendar and schedule (low-threat and administrative tasks I presume)…however, I personally want more growth and developmental time and I don’t think I’ll get that as the TAC.
From the rating/career progression, I’ve heard that some select competent and best LTs to “groom” them for command as the TAC. However, I’ve only been in two different units and I’m not so sure about this reputation either.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2021 8:31 AM

2021-12-07T08:31:18-05:00

It can be good and bad but the main focus should be how can your learn from this position. What take always can you use in your next role that will continue your growth as a leader. At some point you will be an aide to some commander at some level this is one thing that cannot be avoided IMO.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Dec 7 at 2021 8:34 AM

2021-12-07T08:34:17-05:00

I've never heard of TAC Officers being used outside of a schoolhouse. Training, Advising, and Counseling (TAC) Officers are responsible for training, mentoring, and coaching students. I know West Point and the Warrant Academy use them.
Are you guys using the acronym to mean something else? Because you're describing an Aide, which is completely different from a TAC.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Dec 7 at 2021 9:08 AM

2021-12-07T09:08:32-05:00

Any time you can get a position with direct access to a leader much more senior to you, it is a good thing.

You will have access to some of the inner workings of the BN, which will pay HUGE dividends when you do take Command. You will have a Senior leader who, if you impress, will be able to "talk you up" to other senior leaders and start to build your leadership network and your resume. And you will be able to build your peer / near-peer network as your position will bring you in contact with a much wider range of LTs and CPTs.

It is a great position for a career-minded LT.

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Dec 7 at 2021 2:47 PM

2021-12-07T14:47:51-05:00

Not sure what a TAC is in an Engineer Battalion, but in general, being attached to the BN CDR's direct staff isn't a bad thing. He is the guy making the real world decisions and has the ear of the Brigade Commander. Having people that know your performance is important when they start handing out Company Commands.
I served in Divisional Engineer units where I served as Platoon Leader, Company Commander, S1 and Assistant Brigade Engineer. I think most officers look back at their Company Command time as one of the highlights of their career and it was in mine. However, I answer more questions here because of my S1 time than for any other reason. I didn't really like the duty, but it's important to do it right. I did enjoy Assistant Brigade Engineer a lot. You are generally working directly with the Brigade Commanders staff, it's busy and it's where the rubber meets the road.
Good luck. I recommend going for it.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2021 5:33 PM

2021-12-07T17:33:52-05:00

Bloom where you are planted.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Dec 7 at 2021 6:08 PM

2021-12-07T18:08:39-05:00

At about your career point, I was assigned additional duty as the Squadron Admin Officer. I thought my career took a death blow. Sounded like a very boring job. No place for a pilot with aspirations toward moving up. Turned out it was one of the best jobs ever. I worked directly for the Squadron Commander (O-5). He was a very good leader. He knew the Air Force very well and mentored me in a number of areas that helped me later in my career. I had the "opportunity" to learn to work with SNCO (first sergeant), junior NCOs and enlisted. Something Air Force pilots don't get much of until they are commanders. I did "chapter" investigations as we processed airmen out of the Air Force for various infractions and problems. I reviewed NCOERs, OERs, award recommendations, presentations, etc., and learned a lot about how to write well. The Commander had a secretary who kept his calendar, so I didn't have to do that. But she was the first Air Force Civilian employee I ever met or worked with. I worked with supply, finance, personnel, JAG, contracting, and Wing admin. Parts of the Air Force I only sort of knew existed before then. The job lasted only about 9 months then I transferred to a new Squadron. It was a good opportunity to get to know the Air Force outside of the operational environment. If the TAC job is similar to my experience, then it may be a good deal.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 7 at 2021 8:01 PM

2021-12-07T20:01:52-05:00

It’s not a bad position. Be the fix-it guy. Help where you can. You’ll most likely end up helping the S-3 with something. Just be willing to do anything they ask. The great thing about that position is that you’ll really learn what each staff section does. That in itself will be immensely helpful as you progress in your career. And if you do well, you’ll be first in line for a company command, because you’ll have access to the BN CDR that not many others will have.