Posted on Nov 14, 2013
SSG Medical Logistics Specialist
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What advice, if any, would you give to a Soldier that is considering re-classing to a different MOS midway through their career?  Having been in the same field for the last 9 going on 10 years in the Army, would it be a good idea to "start over" with a new Specialty or should the Soldier continue on in their current MOS?
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Responses: 14
SSG Electromagnetic Spectrum Manager
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I rec-classed mid career. I think it's a great thing to do especially if there is no career progression in your current job. You have to look at the possibilities that are put in front of you. Some MOS's are meant for mid-career change (Electromagnetic Spectrum Manager or Contracting NCO). Also consider Warrant officer or other career approaches.
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1SG Steven Stankovich
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Good question SGT Cunningham.  I was a 19D Cavalry Scout for 17 years when I re-classed over to 35M Human Intelligence.  My decision was made for all of the right reasons and looking back now, I still believe that I made the right choice.  As SFC Sturges stated in his response, sometimes you need to look at what transitions well when you decide to hang up your uniform.  An intelligence position along with a TS-SCI is a pretty good addition to my resume.  I do enjoy the job that I am doing now and I am learning a lot.  Keep in mind that when you re-class into a new career field as a Senior NCO, or a Junior NCO for that matter, you will have a steep learning curve.  You walk into a new MOS with others in that field who expect you to have a certain level of technical and tactical knowledge in that career field.  Always continue to learn and grow.  If you don't know, ask.    
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CW2 Aviation Maintenance Officer
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Electronic Warfare (EW) MOS 29E is a new growing field needing Soldiers. Also for something more exciting you have MOS 37F psychological ops and MOS 38B Civil affairs are always in demand.  My favorite of all changes Warrant Officer! 

If you feel that you have become stagnant in your current duties and are looking for not only a change of pace but also better promotion rate / opportunities than wether mid career or not, I think it's a great choice. 
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SSG Medical Logistics Specialist
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I do feel as though I've become stagnant on my current path.  Where I am at, it's a battle for promotion to the next rank.  I am a SGT(P) and the unit I am in....well, let's just say career progression doesn't seem like much of a priority for some in positions of leadership.  I definitely want to achieve a lot more while I'm still young enough to do so.

My former mentor, my old Company Commander told me that I should look into the Commissioned/W.O. route although I'd never considered it when I initially joined.
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CW2 Squadron Maintenance Technician
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I will be trying my hand at this route once more early next year. Proponent wanted me to finish off a few things before they would accept my packet at their level. Overall it's a great career choice. Either I could have spent more time as a Sergeant trying to attain points or do a few interviews, some paperwork and submit a packet.
The course itself brings back basic discipline but for those of us with experience the course itself shouldn't be to tasking. It also teaches basic leadership skills required at that level.
I welcome the challenge of trying to become a Warrant Officer, further my career, and better support my family.
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CPT Brandon Christensen
CPT Brandon Christensen
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Chief, I was actually looking into the EW for officers. Is it possible for me to get that as an MOS identifier and not actually lose my 90A? Tried looking on the army website about it, but didn't see much about it being a skill identifier.
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CW2 Aviation Maintenance Officer
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Sir, there is a 1J identifier course for Soldier of any branch, it's a six week course. Below is the link.

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