What is it like to work at USASMA?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 06:58:45 -0400

So I was told today that when I leave good ol’ Camp Casey, Korea, I will be working at the USASMA Operations Center. This is the first time I have heard about this as being a position or job I could do. I am a 14G Air Defender and have already been outside my MOS for the last 4.5 years for Recruiting. Now a year in Korea and back to a job outside of my MOS I assume. Does anyone have any idea what I will be doing as a duty? Will this negatively impact me and my career? Is there pros and cons to it? If anyone knows anything about any of this, please let me know.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2019 10:17 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 10:17:10 -0400

I imagine it's the only spot of grass on Fort Bliss and fhat it's pristine lol

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Mar 15 at 2019 11:08 AM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 11:08:56 -0400

More time outside your MOS is definitely not a pro. You are already "broadened" by your recruiting time. However, you will be where SGMs are made. Lots of good networking opportunities. Awesome chance to pick up leadership tips and tricks. Learn what it takes to become a SGM now, and you have a leg up on everyone else down the road.

Just remember that you aren't a SGM yet, and don't get too big for your britches.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Mar 15 at 2019 12:12 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 12:12:59 -0400

I got to work there as the Chaplains Sergeant Major while I was waiting to be appointed as CSM. The chaplains assistants were ecstatic to have an Engineer Sergeant Major of their very own ;) . It was pretty decent as a staff member, much more pleasant than being a student.
They have a section in the training development side of the house that works on NCOES and Leadership development products and curriculum. An educated guess is that you would be on one of the working groups for NCOES development pertaining to your career field. You should pull up the web site and call or email the operations section and ask them.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Mar 15 at 2019 12:17 PM

SGM Bill Frazer — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 12:17:18 -0400

1. It can crimp your position, but by the same token, you have been selected to work at the Premier NCO course in the Service. Battle Staff Course, 1SG Course and of course the CSM/SGM Course. 2. Lots of networking chances and a lot of chances to make impressions for the future.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Mar 15 at 2019 2:44 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 14:44:40 -0400

I actually worked at the USASMA FOR 4 years. If I were assigned as one of the leaders there I would divert you across the street to an MTO&E unit. If I were you I would ask Branch this very question. One year back in your MOS with another 3+ projected back out after one year in the saddle does not bode well for your career. Now I am one person. The USASMA itself is a great place to work and serve, I just think you are not poised to do so. Seek guidance from your CSM and ultimately the CSM’s support in changing your assignment. Thank you for your service.