What is the best way to obtain a position within USMA West Point?

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 13:51:25 -0500

It’s almost that time again for me and my family To consider what’s next. I know, the Army decides but an interesting opportunity came to light after meeting and speaking with a former West Point Accessions Officer. He strongly believes that West Point would be a great fit for me. He then suggested I call the USMA CSM directly with my ERB, Bio, and Leadership Philosophy prepared. I’m all for it but is this the best way? I’ve never applied to something like this, therefore I’m a bit apprehensive. A few factors to consider: I’m currently a Drill Sergeant at DLIFLC; promotable to MSG; will have 16.5 years AFS by the time I PCS in July 2020. Any and all advice is much appreciated. Constructive criticism is also welcomed.

Response by LCDR Joshua Gillespie made Dec 17 at 2019 2:33 PM

LCDR Joshua Gillespie — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 14:33:22 -0500

I can't offer any wisdom on how the Academies select their staff; particularly Senior Enlisted...but I can offer some thoughts from the perspective of those you may ultimately have the opportunity to help mentor and prepare for careers as future officers. When I was a Mid, our SEAs were revered. I had a Navy SEAL (E-8) and Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who led my class through much of our initial training. To us, these people were supreme professionals who gave us our first real look at the services we were aspiring to join. The Academy training program is run, in no small part, by the "upper class", so it's very important "we" get the opposing perspective from the "Fleet"...or Army, in this case. Many of the folks "flaming" us may end up being very close to peers after graduation...but Senior Enlisted Advisors and Company Officers will always be mentors young JOs look up to as they start their careers. I hope you get the assignment, and envy you more than a little...Best of Luck!

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Dec 17 at 2019 3:43 PM

LT Brad McInnis — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 15:43:24 -0500

Concur with LCDR Joshua Gillespie said below about what you re stepping into. We, as cadets and midshipmen need you senior enlisted advisors there. You fill a very big part.

As far as getting in, I would send your stuff to the CSM. I would also see if there are any other people you know that might either be there, or have been there. Ask them to write referral letters for you application. It is always better to have someone who has done well at a place to vouch for someone else.

I am not sure where you are at, but there is more than likely a West Point Alumni Association. Try and meet some of these people to see if they can help you. They generally know the ins and outs.

Best of luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2019 3:48 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 15:48:34 -0500

USMA instructor is a nominative assignment, so the right way would be to contact either your branch PDNCO, branch chief, or the USMA commandant or CSM.
However, what you have going against you is that you would be going from TDA to TDA. It's prohibited by HRC policy and against your professional development model. That means it would put you behind your peers in the future. It would also require a waiver from HRC to do the move and you may be a lower choice candidate until you complete your KD time in your new grade.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 20 at 2019 6:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 18:16:43 -0500

I would definitely agree with SFC Boyd in regards to moving from TDA to TDA. I will caveat that if USMA wants you and you want to go, then you will go. You could volunteer for Kuwait or Korea, with a follow on of USMA. USMA is a special place, for you and your family. Depending on your MOS, then you could be part of the Brigade Tactical Staff or support staff; either way it is a very prestigious assignment (only 139 NCO’s assigned from the entire Army). The officers are correct as well, your influence on future Officer/NCO relationship is paramount. BIGGEST thing for you personally/professionally is it’s a completely different environment from TRADOC. It’s a four year undergraduate institution, not a training environment. The current USMA CSM has been there a little over a year, there’s a new CSM for the USMA Prep school, and their 1SG will hit a year here pretty soon. I could go on and on, so if you are interested shoot me message and we can get into the weeds.

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Mar 14 at 2020 11:03 PM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Sat, 14 Mar 2020 23:03:45 -0400

No brainer SFC . Take the job offers for that job is so rare .. if you don't impress somebody, you don't get recommended to the USMA CSM...