Can anyone give me information about the Smapp program?

2015-09-24T23:31:24-04:00

Hello and thank you in advance,
I'm currently serving my first enlistment as a 68W. I'm at the point in my career, when it is time to either re-up or get out. I've had the "pleasure" of being in 2 BSBs. So down to my questions:
1.I have the option to reclass, the medical field is a hit or miss. So I'm actually looking into the Smapp program, after a very concise pro/con list. I have decided either 12P(Prime power specialist) or
35L (Counter intelligence agent)
So my question to all you wonderful 12p's and 35L's is, how do you like your job? How fulfilling is the mission to you in your MOS?

Thank you!

Response by SSG Toryn Green made Sep 25 at 2015 12:25 AM

2015-09-25T00:25:47-04:00

First off, let me state that I do not hold either one of these MOS's. I will however say, that it shouldn't depend so much on the actual MOS rather what you put into it. Any MOS can be very rewarding assuming you are willing to put forth the time and effort into going to the schools, seeking out additional training opportunities, etc.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 25 at 2015 9:13 PM

2015-09-25T21:13:58-04:00

I am a 12b, but because of my civilian experience I got slotted as a 12R on deployment. On Fob Fenty and Bagram AF Base I had the pleasure to work with 12P on a couple projects. They were absolutely professional, and they knew what they were doing. With all apologies and due respect, it was one of the few times I've actually enjoyed being around active duty troops. They treated us well, and knew what they were doing. A couple of them tried to talk me into reclassing, and going to the Reserves, as there is no prime power in the Guard anymore (as far as I'm aware.) The pitch sounded good, but it didn't mean near as much to me as the quality of guys they were. I can't say what they do on a whole, but the guys I saw in Afghanistan were doing their jobs.

Response by CW4 Russ Hamilton (Ret) made Sep 26 at 2015 5:07 AM

2015-09-26T05:07:41-04:00

First off, allow me to state that 35L Counterintelligence is the best MOS in the Army (I spent 10 years enlisted and 20 years as a WO, 97G, 05G, & 11B2P previously). HOWEVER, this is contingent on your love for conducting very thorough investigations, writing very detailed investigative reports, your ability to talk to people and conduct interviews, run sources who provide us intelligence, brief O-4 thru O-7 officers, speak to large groups of people and so on. The key skills required are a strong command of reading and writing the English language, your ability to read and follow instructions, working without immediate supervision and a strong ability to speak to people. Do not join CI because it’s just an option, do it because you have researched it and you want it. Don’t do it if you want a badge, want to wear civilian clothes on post or in a combat zone or because you want to be a 007 spy. We are what I would describe as the Army’s intelligence police – lots of investigations, report writing and overtime. In fact, in the Reserve and Guard, we have a lot of cops. Each candidate is THOROUGHLY screened before acceptance so don’t assume it’s a gimme (some don’t get accepted). If you don’t qualify for a TS-SCI clearance you will not be accepted. You will be interviewed several times and you will have to pass a writing test. If you can’t write, this MOS is not for you (take some remedial English classes before applying). Introverts do not do well in this job either. Just research the MOS first before applying – this job is not for everyone. Again, this is the best MOS in the Army. OK, maybe 18B is better, but that's it. Best of luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 27 at 2015 11:23 PM

2015-09-27T23:23:25-04:00

SPC Filomeo,
I'll have to echo one of the others below... 35L has been extremely rewarding for me personally, but it is certainly not the best choice for everyone. Identify why exactly 35L appeals to you, what exactly you want to get out of the MOS, and what exactly you want to get out of the Army... because if you're only driven by the promotion and getting out of being in assignments with 'little to do', you may be better served by working towards a commission through the medical programs (good medical staff are always appreciated as well).
If you're serious (and have done some research on your own to identify what's attracting you), feel free to toss some questions my way on PM and I'll guide you more at that time.
-SFC Schroeder

Response by SPC Kevin Campbell Lopez made Oct 7 at 2015 10:20 AM

2015-10-07T10:20:07-04:00

I've barely been 2 years in and in my 2nd BSB. Yeah, it's "pleasure" alright...stay strong brother, suffering as much as you are!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2017 2:44 AM

2017-05-20T02:44:23-04:00

I'm going to school for 12P in August under the SMAPP. I chose this this job over the others in SMAPP because from what I read it involves working with equipment more on a daily basis and fit me more because I am into mechanical type things and thought I'd enjoy it more. I've read they go on tdy often depending on situations and events happening requiring emergency power. That's what all attracted me. I don't knowhow much time u have to decide but I'll gladly let u know the school is and if it's what I thought it might be when I'm in