Aviation Survival Technician 2nd Class Omar Alba, the Military Times 2018 CoastGuardsman of the...

To be honest the Military Times Coast Guardsman of the Year award, although very prestigious, has no bearing on PO Alba’s advancement opportunities. It’s not mentioned here but his command may have already recognized his efforts which does help him advance as does his semi-annual performance reviews. PO Alba’s command wouldn’t have submitted a package to compete for this award if his work performance was anything but stellar. The Coast Guard does have a service award of their own known as “Coast Guardsman of the Year” selected by HQ. That award does provide the member an immediate field promotion to the next rank but Chief Petty Officer is two pay grades above an AST2. Aviation Survivalman Technician is a very slow moving rate for advancement. An AST2 will need to be advanced to wear AST1 for 2 years before becoming eligible for Chief Petty Officer (ASTC), same for all enlisted rates. Generally speaking, it’s very difficult for Rescue Swimmers to advance to Chief or above. There’s just very few senior enlisted billets in the AST field.