What is it that I need to do to be a crew chief? What will set me apart from everyone else?

It’s depends on if you’re active or Guard.

I can only offer what I’ve heard about active. From what I’ve gathered, it’s rare for a new Tango fresh out of IET to end up in a flight company. They usually go to a maintenance company or support battalion and then get picked up from there if they shine.

On the Guard side, because of the way the Guard is structured and units are dispersed, it’s not uncommon for a new soldier to end up in a flight company. I’m at Ft Eustis right now, and there are a few Guard E4s and below that are going to a flight company with no aviation or Black Hawk experience.

Right now, just worry about getting through basic and AIT. Once you get to your unit, then you can start expressing a desire. You have to back up that desire with effort though. They’re not going to take someone that they see as lazy or unmotivated.

Start off by learning how to be a 15T......study the manuals and learn what you can about the aircraft. Stay motivated and always show a willingness to LEARN more. Those are the qualities that most flight company’s look for. Also it helps to try and maintain Class III medical standards(i.e. flight physical)

What you need to do to set yourself apart is to not want to set yourself apart. A “Crew” is a team. Put the team ahead of yourself and that’s all you ever need to know about how to be successful in a crew or small team.