What are your thoughts on an artilleryman going 153A Warrant?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 16:40:08 -0400

I've known I wanted to be a warrant officer for as long as I've been in. Now is the time in my career to accomplish that. However, I haven't decided if I should go 131A, Field Artillery Targeting Technican or 153A, Rotary Wing Aviator. Thoughts or experience on the topic is great appreciated.

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 28 at 2018 7:30 PM

WO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 28 Jul 2018 19:30:55 -0400

It all really depends on what you ultimately want to do. Each are great career choices. Just my opinion but you have a lot of experience in the artillery realm so you know what to expect. Just my opinion but you apply to both. I was 12 yr Infantryman and all I wanted to do if fly. You can put in for both are what figure out the path you want to take. Good luck!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2018 11:00 AM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 11:00:57 -0400

I was pretty much in the same boat as you. I was a prior 13B. I had to decide on either 131A or 153A. What made my decision was that 131’s spend their time in a S-Shop most of their careers. I can’t stand that type of work. I want to be always doing things. I went 153A in the end because I wanted to fly and not have to spend my career inside of S-shops. If that is your kind of thing, do it. Just don’t waste your time putting your packet together. Also, when you fill out your packet, there is a portion in which you can’t put the primary job you want and then a secondary. The only catch to that is I believe both jobs have to be conducting boards at the same time.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 29 at 2018 1:01 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 13:01:30 -0400

I was a 13B for almost 12 years. I had the choice between 131A and 153 as well. Looking at the jobs, it all depends on what you want to do. Work in an “S shop” or fly. Both are good career moves, but flying is great. Flying also gives you better career opportunities when you retire. However, remember if you go flight you will never stop studying. Never. There is always something to learn or remember. It’s not just your life in your hands, but your entire crew.