Posted on Apr 21, 2022
James Valente
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SFC Retention Operations Nco
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It doesn't matter what career field you're in.

You can apply to be a pilot at any point, even as a civilian
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SFC Casey O'Mally
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There are (generally) two paths to becoming a Warrant (at least in the Army).

Option 1: "Street to Seat." These folks have NO prior service, nor is any needed. In this case, your question is moot.

Option 2: Demonstrated expertise. This if for folks currently in the Army who want to go Warrant. These folks should become NCOs, at a minimum, usually requiring a SSG. They should have a history of demonstrated excellence. The specific rules vary depending on the Warrant MOS. Flight Warrants, generally speaking, have a lower level of expertise required, because it is pretty hard to established yourself as a technical expert at flying without actually flying. Flight Warrants also accept every MOS (unless this has changed recently), whereas most other Warrants accept a limited number of feeder MOSs. But even flight Warrants, if they have a service history, need to have demonstrated excellence. You have a better chance of street to seat than you do of going warrant with a couple Article 15s and a failed promotion board. But, regardless of any of that, your question is ALSO moot. Because this is putting the cart before the horse. If you want to try to go Warrant after getting some enlisted time under your belt, then you do not need to worry about going Warrant right now. Worry about enlisting, learning your job - whatever job you pick - and doing it WELL. THEN you can worry about Warrant.
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James Valente
James Valente
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Which would be the better route to go in your opinion and why?
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SFC Casey O'Mally
SFC Casey O'Mally
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James Valente That depends entirely on you and your intentions. If *all* you want to do is fly helicopters, then street to seat. If what you REALLY want to do is be a Soldier, and it would be a cool bonus if you can fly helicopters, then enlist and drop a pocket later

Generally speaking, it will probably be quicker and easier to enlist. Then you are *in*, and regardless of if you ever make it to flight, at least you are a Soldier. Then you can learn a different skill and, at your leisure, drop your Warrant packet.

Both programs have their pluses and minuses. If the primary goal is to fly, I would recommend street to seat. It will get you in the air quickest, and give you more time in the air throughout your career. Then if that doesn't work, THEN enlist, and maybe you will have more success 5 years down the road when you drop a packet.
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MSG Intermediate Care Technician
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