Is it easy to request a rank exception, or request to enter the Army as an E-5, so I can duo an interservice transfer to try out for 18X?

So essentially there is no way to keep E6? Because the Navy doesn't have an ALC? I'm not worried about keeping it, there are just a lot more conducive opportunities at E5. I'm also very confident I'll pick E6 back up. Thank You SGM in advance.

Depending on your experience, The Army may grant you an E6 rank, but there are hefty requirements to keep it. Since E6 is still a Junior-NCO position in the Army, it can be worth a try, just don't be surprised if they request you drop to E5. All E5's and above will have their eligibility determined by CG of USAREC overall, but it's easier for E5 and below to maintain their rank in the army due to the reduced responsibility you would be transitioning in. E6s, depending on the unit and structure, are treated as team leaders or squad leaders, and generally are more involved with staffing duties. Not having this experience doesn't disqualify you, but it is worth noting as E6s in the Army may have vastly different job roles than in the Navy.

To get E6 in the Army when E5, you require the completion of SSD2 (online learning development for NCOs) and the completion of ALC. There are also Time in Rank requirements, but with COVID-19 they may be waved (but not for long). TIS is also waived if your are Inter-Service Xfer.

See https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/continue-serving/transitioning-services/inter-service-transfer-program.html for more info on inter service transfer. I also advise NOT doing 18X, it's a bloated MOS that doesn't really qualify for anything other than a possible Selection Slot (our SF is hurting for bodies which is why this MOS is promoted). You're best bet is to get into a combat MOS (doesn't have to be 11B, can be anything combat related) and attach to a unit that is willing to let you go to Selection in the future.