With the upcoming drawdown, is aviation a viable Army career choice?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 03:22:56 -0400

Once I attain E-5, I want to put in my WO packet to obtain an aviation Warrant Officer slot. Is this even worth the effort if the drawdown will be going on? Any information that can be provided would be helpful, I'd like to hear some tips from Service Members and Veterans who are more experienced than I am.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2014 4:58 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 04:58:22 -0400

You are going to be applying for 153A Rotary Wing Aviator I assume, and from what Im hearing from my peers this is again the time to apply for Warrant Officer. Im not sure how accurate that is since I cannot see the strength but I wouldnt wait. Begin studying for the SIFT (Build your helicopter knowledge, Dyssymetry of Lift, Retreating blade stall, learn instruments and gauges, Math (theres a lot)), and begin working your resume. You need to link up with a Warrant Officer who will work with you through this process so you can have a strong packet with a good chance of being selected. Since you are currently at BAF, there is a Combat Aviation Brigade stationed there with you, and you shouldnt have an issue linking up with one. Best of luck.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made May 17 at 2014 3:22 PM

SSG Trevor S. — Sat, 17 May 2014 15:22:49 -0400

You may want to consider a reclassification before looking for SGT. If you want to enter aviation as an enlisted Soldier you need to be a SPC or below that is not promotable. If you are picked up on a warrant packet it will not matter what your rank is, but if you are interested in joining aviation overall you cannot be promotable and re-class (the last I looked, check with your re-enlistment NCO for the most up to date policy).