Going from Reserve to Active Duty in Signal?

2016-04-23T22:36:25-04:00

Seeking advice from others, so I'm going into a unit that hasn't necessarily promised to push me to 17C (once it opens). But I've always thought about going Active Duty since I enisted. Would you recommend it? I have a full time IT job already as a civilian.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2016 10:45 PM

2016-04-23T22:45:41-04:00

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member Looking at your profile, you have quite a bit going on. Are you ready to give up a good job and the other things that you are involved with to go active duty? If the answer is yes, then go for it!

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 23 at 2016 10:57 PM

2016-04-23T22:57:28-04:00

Honestly if it's what you really desire and want to do then go for it but just do your research before doing it. The 17C Mos is very selective and requires some experience. Have you looked into the requirements for the MOS?

Response by MAJ Javier Rivera made Apr 24 at 2016 5:58 AM

2016-04-24T05:58:52-04:00

Just compare the pros and cons with your current situation. And by the way, have you already talked with a recruiter? As a prior service the process is a bit different.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Apr 24 at 2016 7:49 AM

2016-04-24T07:49:11-04:00

Serving for over 30 years in the Army was very rewarding, an experience I would not trade for anything. Having aid that the lifestyle is very different than what you experience now. I recommend that you look at the whole Soldier concept, Duty, Family and self and not necessary in that order. Salary, benefits, quality of life and personal gratification in what it is that you do 24/7. Active duty consumes you as a person, it becomes the largest part of your identity. I recommend you speak to those in your current unit most recently released from active duty, they will have the clearest perspective on todays Army. It is great for most and not for some.

Good luck!

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 24 at 2016 11:05 AM

2016-04-24T11:05:53-04:00

As a fellow IT guy, I would have jumped at the chance for Cyber Ops if it was offered back in the day. If you're on your own (single, no kids, etc) I'd say go for it! The civilian side of cybersecurity is only going to grow. The experience will be very beneficial when you get out. Go for it!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 3 at 2016 7:43 AM

2016-05-03T07:43:55-04:00

SPC Bernardy,
Looking at the recruiting side of things, it may not be as easy as people think. There are business rules that apply for PS that tend to be really strict. These usually require certain MOS's, ranks, and TIS. If you would like a solid straight up answer, PM with these details and I can let you know if you are able to based on current business rules. BTW there are plenty of recruiters that have no idea what to do with PS. Good luck

Response by SGT Jim Arnold made Sep 22 at 2017 1:28 PM

2017-09-22T13:28:48-04:00

your job would be a bit more secure going active duty