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The development of the professional attributes and technical capabilities of enlisted soldiers, warrant officers, and officers to meet the needs of the Army is accomplished through Proponent-designed career development models for each of our military occupation specialty (MOS) and career fields. In this issue we will discuss some of the more important considerations you should take into account when planning your next career move.
However, a word of caution. While these career development models describe the required schooling, operational assignments, and self-development goals for MI soldiers and officers they are neither sacrosanct nor should they be considered the final word. They are based on Army requirements of the numbers and types of soldiers and officers to be accessed, retained, promoted, schooled, and assigned. They are basic guidance and do not apply to every situation. Nevertheless, if we have learned anything it is that to be competitive for promotion the models do come close. You should strive to diversify your experience by serving in both technical and leadership positions listed in the model appropriate to your MOS for your current or next higher skill level. Ideally, you should serve successfully in the appropriate leadership position at every level.
Enlisted Actions
Professional Development Model. If you are serious about getting promoted, one of the first things you should do is to take a hard look at the Professional Development Model for your MOS. While these Professional Development Models are not designed to be all-inclusive, they are intended to provide direction for career progression and an insight into the types of training to request at each skill level. The Professional Development Model for each MI enlisted MOS can be found at http://usaic.hua.army.mil/ocmi/ enlisted.html.
Education. Advances in technology have made distance learning easily accessible, convenient, and self-paced. Computer Based Training (CBT), Distance Learning System, military correspondence and Internet courses, all provided by e-learning (SMARTFORCE), DANTES, etc., can be accessed via Army Knowledge Online (AKO). But, in addition to Noncommissioned Officer Education System (NCOES) schools you will also need to pursue self-development opportunities to be fully competitive for promotion. Block G of the Professional Development Model outlines some of the degrees and certifications recommended to give you a competitive edge in your MOS at different times and stages of your...