What is the 12W job actually like?

I was only a 12W for a brief period of time, so my personal experience is a bit limited. I went in to MOS training with some basic knowledge under my belt, but I still learned worlds more.

At my unit, due to mandatory Army training requirements, we only worked on construction projects twice. Other than that, we went through the standard PMCS work on the vehicles in the motor pool and spent a few training weekends conducting tactical/combat training.

Prior to and after my time there, though, the unit (during AT) went to a variety of locations and worked on some pretty impressive construction projects. Many Soldiers also cross-trained on the electrical & plumbing construction fields & develop an enviable knowledge base.

Hopefully that answers your question a little, or is there something else/more you were wanting to know?

U build stuff.... or u destroy stuff... ALOT of inventory... and u get to crostrain with other engineer MOS for the most part...

I've been a reservist for 8 years as a 12W, and I love it! First deployment I cross-trained and worked with 12N. We spents a couple months building bases from scratch, no showers, eating MREs all day, sleeping in our trucks, guard duty shifts, building tents decks, TOCs, storage sheds, guard towers. In between tasked we experienced IDF and Small-Arms Fire. Given that I was cross-trained with horizontal engineers I also drove a dump truck to build gravel roads for further our capabilities into more remote areas, then enhanced bases on the way. On my second tour I participated in the building of a Joint Operations Command Center in Kuwait. Work involved wall framing, insulation, drywall, spackling, sanding, painting, drop-down ceilings, etc. I also went to another country that I can't disclose due to OPSEC and worked in civilian attire.
During Annual Trainings, I've built, Concrete Pads, Baseball Fields, Guard Shacks, NCO Academy Billeting, and more.
I think being an Army Engineer is EXTREMELY versitile, functional, and relative to the civilian world. I recommend.