For anyone who has been an OC-T at JRTC, what did you think of the assignment and how can I best prepare for my first rotation?

I was a Role Player as a DA Civilian and later as a Contractor when they needed them for rotations where 35 series MOS troops were getting a chance to use their skill sets. I truly wish they had not discontinued that. I found it and working with the OCs very rewarding. With respect to that skill set I think that the experiences learned by the OCs when deployed....the reality as opposed to the canned school house training scenarios was greatly appreciated. The troops got a chance to apply their skills in a more realistic environment and do a walk through before going full speed on the "Force on Force". Unfortunately the Commanders usually didn't want the MI troops detracting from the game by needing security to leave the FOB etc... But the STX week was the big payoff. If you haven't had a chance to do "hip pocket" training in awhile that is the place to do it. Best of Luck. Its a worthwhile assignment.

We'll start with the bad first. Its hot, 11 rotations a year, and RTU will always mess up on the same thing. The good definitely out weighs the bad. Promotion rates are good, schooling is always available, and the downtime is also amazing. Outside of regs and doctrine, you'll need to know the training area for sure and most definitely the OCT handbook. RTU will try and get over on you! By far my best assignment, I've been here for two years already and love the job!

Not specific to JRTC, but my assignment as an OC at the NTC has been an incredibly rewarding experience. You have a unique opportunity to shape BCTs into a more capable and lethal force, while learning an incredible amount about your job and that of your seniors. As for preparation, it’s easy to get jaded as an OC/T. You’ll see units make the same mistakes rotation after rotation, so a good TTP to establish for yourself is to pick one good thing to address with your counterpart during every hot wash you conduct. You may have to hunt pretty hard, or pick a shiny turd to talk about, but it’ll do wonders to increase your credibility with coaches personnel.
I’m sure some JRTC guys will chime in, but if you have any general questions, feel free to hit me up on global.