Posted on Jan 19, 2018
What advice do you have on what to study, certifications to get, etc., before I submit a packet to reclassify to 17C?
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I took a few classes in college on C++, but I would need a refresher. I fixed the hardware side of computer in the Marine Corps, but my main job was to make sure the data guys programmed the switch correctly. Any advice on what to study or certs to get before I submit my packet.
Posted in these groups: 
Reclass
17C: Cyber Operations Specialist
Reclass 17C: Cyber Operations Specialist
Posted >1 y ago
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I've posted several responses to similar questions in a few different threads so those are worth reading through and I'll post a response here to try to be more current. The good MSgt linked an older thread that also has good information but in the ever shifting world of Cyber, it is always good to try to find current information.
First off, C++ isn't used much, so with the programming background, I would recommend going to Code Academy and learning Python. Other scripting is often used (bash, powershell) so those are going to be things that help should you be accepted, but as far as the packet goes, the more technical your items are prior to submitting your packet, the better. If you have a draft packet assembled, I'd be willing to look it over.
The main feeder MOSes tend to come out of Signal and MI, so you would be competing with people who have multiple certifications usually in Sec+, Net+, CASP, or other in the security and IA fields. Those are always good certifications to have. Looks like you may have some network knowledge with switches, so a CCNA is also a good certification.
The other main qualifications are GT 110 and ST 112. If you're not there, you'll want to make sure you have ample time to prep and retest to improve. The panels that review the packets automatically dismiss those as there have not been any waivers I've seen yet. Also eligibility to get and hold a TS is part of it so it helps if you already have one (again, the MI usually does and Signal has a lot who do).
Let me know if this helps and I'll answer any other questions as best I can if you have more.
First off, C++ isn't used much, so with the programming background, I would recommend going to Code Academy and learning Python. Other scripting is often used (bash, powershell) so those are going to be things that help should you be accepted, but as far as the packet goes, the more technical your items are prior to submitting your packet, the better. If you have a draft packet assembled, I'd be willing to look it over.
The main feeder MOSes tend to come out of Signal and MI, so you would be competing with people who have multiple certifications usually in Sec+, Net+, CASP, or other in the security and IA fields. Those are always good certifications to have. Looks like you may have some network knowledge with switches, so a CCNA is also a good certification.
The other main qualifications are GT 110 and ST 112. If you're not there, you'll want to make sure you have ample time to prep and retest to improve. The panels that review the packets automatically dismiss those as there have not been any waivers I've seen yet. Also eligibility to get and hold a TS is part of it so it helps if you already have one (again, the MI usually does and Signal has a lot who do).
Let me know if this helps and I'll answer any other questions as best I can if you have more.
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SSG (Join to see)
SPC Frank Blunt - It is a branch transfer packet that has to be submitted and then you have to be accepted so not a simple MOS reclass. You would work with your retention NCO for that. The requirements are GT 110 and ST 112 and I haven't heard of waivers for that. This would mean you'd need to improve your ST score to be considered. Certifications help the packet for consideration, but has no bearing on the school itself. You're expected to know quite a bit so that is part of the packet to indicate acceptance (College degree, certifications, experience, programming, etc). A third of my packet was just my certifications and transcripts and my packet was nearly 50 pages.
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SPC (Join to see)
SSG Chen- I'm currently 92 G (yes food service specialist aka cook) and want to switch to 17C. I've good ASVAB Score and no issues with PT test either. I currently have over 10 years of network and IT security experience, have worked on firewalls, IDS, IPS etc with CCNA, CCNP(SECURITY), CCIE (Security) and CISM certifications. I've been trying hard to find connections or directions but apparently my unit does not know much about it. I just started the process to get secret clearance and its my understanding that this is a must at the time of application. My questions to you are:
1) What would be the process for me to change my MOS?
2) How and where do I start?
3) From the above description, do you see any challenges that I might have to work in advance to get this done?
4) Do you mind sharing your email id or phone number?
Thanks in advance,
SPC Kochhar
1) What would be the process for me to change my MOS?
2) How and where do I start?
3) From the above description, do you see any challenges that I might have to work in advance to get this done?
4) Do you mind sharing your email id or phone number?
Thanks in advance,
SPC Kochhar
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SSG (Join to see)
SPC (Join to see) - Great for you to take the initiative. Always keep in mind that the best person to take care of your career is yourself. As great as your NCOs may or may not be, they have their own stuff to take care of, and I don't know how many other soldiers they may have. You seem highly technical so that hurdle shouldn't be an issue. Nothing wrong with being a 92G as I've many friends who are and they keep me fed. My squad cyber nickname is Nom Nom for a very good reason. So now to address your concerns.
1 & 2) You should contact your retention NCO. You need to put together a branch transfer packet for 17C. There's a checklist of items you need to put together, to include a questionnaire which evaluates your knowledge. Other items include letters of recommendation, a DA 4187 requesting transfer, etc. I've sent an email with a memo as to what you need to do.
3) Other than the GT 110 and ST 112, you will need to be eligible for a TS clearance and incur a 3 year obligation if you're accepted. A secret is only a start which I assume the lack of clearance is about the only reason someone as educated as you are is in a field that doesn't require a clearance in many units. I have known 92Gs with TS. Since the majority of people are Signal and MI, you may have problems with having a letter of reference from your CoC. You'll also have a problem with not having any technical positions on your ERB, but not a deal breaker.
4) I've emailed you so you now have my email address.
1 & 2) You should contact your retention NCO. You need to put together a branch transfer packet for 17C. There's a checklist of items you need to put together, to include a questionnaire which evaluates your knowledge. Other items include letters of recommendation, a DA 4187 requesting transfer, etc. I've sent an email with a memo as to what you need to do.
3) Other than the GT 110 and ST 112, you will need to be eligible for a TS clearance and incur a 3 year obligation if you're accepted. A secret is only a start which I assume the lack of clearance is about the only reason someone as educated as you are is in a field that doesn't require a clearance in many units. I have known 92Gs with TS. Since the majority of people are Signal and MI, you may have problems with having a letter of reference from your CoC. You'll also have a problem with not having any technical positions on your ERB, but not a deal breaker.
4) I've emailed you so you now have my email address.
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SPC (Join to see)
SSG Chen- Thank you so much. I will start working on this immediately and keep you posted.
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