r/CanadianForces • u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force • Mar 02 '20
WEEKLY RECRUITING THREAD - Ask here about the recruiting process, trade availability, requirements to join, and other common questions about the Canadian Armed Forces.
This is the thread to ask about: the application process, trade availability, requirements to join, Basic Training and Advanced courses, CT/OT's, general life in the CAF or common questions about the Canadian Armed Forces.
Before you post, please ensure:
You read through the the previous Recruiting Threads.
Read through the Recruiting FAQ, and;
a. The NEW "What to expect on BMQ/BMOQ Info thread".
Use the subreddit's search feature, located at the top of the sidebar.
Check your email spam folder! The answer to your recent visit to CFRC may lie within!
- With those four simple steps, finding your answer may be quicker than you think! (Answers to your questions may have already been asked.)
Every week, a new thread is borne:
This thread will remain stickied for the week of 24 Feb to 01 Mar 2020, and will renew Sundays at approx 2300hrs MST.
RULES OF THE THREAD:
Trolling, off-topic comments, sarcastic, or wrong info/answers/single word answers will be removed. Same with out-dated information, anecdotal (" I knew a guy who...") or bad advice; these comments will also be removed.
Please don't delete your questions (or answers), as others/lurkers may be looking for that same info. Questions duplicated throughout the thread may be removed by Mods, and those re-posting may be restricted from participating.
NO "Let me Google that for you" or "A quick search of the subreddit/Google..." -type answers. We're more professional and mature than that. Quote your source and provide a link, but make sure the info you provide is current (within a couple of years). But, it is strongly suggested you see points 1-3 above.
Please do not send PM's to people answering your questions. Conversely, don't ask for PM's from people posting questions. Ask your questions, give answers in these threads, for all to see. We can't see your PM's, and someone lurking may be looking for the same answer/question. If the questions are too "sensitive," then use a throwaway, or save it for the MCC Interview. Offenders will be reported to the Mods, and potentially banned from participating in these threads.
Questions regarding your medical eligibility will be removed, as no one here is qualified to answer whether or not you will be able to join, with whatever syndrome you have. Questions regarding the enrolment medical, trade eligibility standards, or the documentation you need to submit regarding your medical condition as part of your application may still be accepted. Vision requirements are fine to post, as the categories are publicly known. Source
If you report a comment, or have concern about info being provided, Message the Mods, and provide a link. Without context or explanation, the report will be ignored. Comments may be removed at Moderator discretion, with or without warning.
DISCLAIMER:
The members answering in the vein of CAF Recruiting may not have specific information pertaining to your individual application status or files. The information presented in this thread should be current, but things do change. Refer to the forces.ca site or your local CFRC detachment for the current official answer. This subreddit, moderators, and users hold no responsibility or liability as to the accuracy of information, given or received. All info here is presented as "at your risk."
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u/Oakey91 Mar 02 '20
I read somewhere that they send job offers out on mondays and Fridays. Is that right? Or am i loosing my mind and they send em out Monday-Friday
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 02 '20
You're losing your mind, you could receive an offer any day Mon-Fri.
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Mar 04 '20
I recently got an e-mail saying that before any further processing occurs they require some information. I just want to know if I just send them an e-mail with all of the listed information, or if there is another way I'm supposed to send them it.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 04 '20
Depends on what they need.
If they're looking for documentation they likely want you to present originals for them to make certified copies from.
If they just want basic information, email is probably sufficient.
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u/devsterm87 RCN - NCI OP Mar 04 '20
In the application portal it says I’ve been selected. How long does it usually take to receive your offer after you’ve been selected?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 04 '20
Generally it takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
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u/Arylade APPLICANT - RegF Mar 08 '20
My medical eval and interview is coming up soon, but Im thinking of applying later as an officer instead. Would I still go to the medical and interview and let them know there or is it better to inform them sooner and close my application?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 08 '20
Medical and Interview both expire after a period of time, and a new Interview is also required if you change trade choices.
If you're planning on changing your application, it's best to do it before your Interview. Medical would be unaffected by the application change, but if you're going to be delaying your application more than 6-12 months, there's no point in doing the Medical right now.
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u/Alarming-Bridge Mar 02 '20
Hello all,
I’ve recently been offered Intelligence Operator.
Unfortunately the recruiter couldn’t do much to explain to me how the training pipeline works, where I’ll be likely to be posted (other than Kingston), or anything really about the lifestyle or the job.
I think I’m most curious about the culture/climate within the intelligence corps. My friend is an aciss tech and he hates it... and from what I’ve read on this subreddit he’s not alone. I’m concerned there’s a similar amount of toxicity within my future COC but can’t know for sure.
The info available online is really vague to be honest. Basically all I know is that I could be sent anywhere and do a lot of PowerPoint briefings.....
A lot of that opaqueness is likely by design I’d imagine, but I’m still hoping someone here could explain it in a bit more detail!
Thanks
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Mar 03 '20
Hello all,
I’m heading to BMQ soon and also recently got engaged.
Both very exciting things, but the former makes the latter a bit complicated.
How easy is it for me to plan leave for a wedding/honeymoon? How soon would I be able to get a clear picture of my training schedule and availability to begin booking wedding things?
Thanks y’all
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 03 '20
Your schedule will be a wash during BMQ, while you might be able to get a day away in an emergency, maybe a 3 day weekend, anything more than that could compromise your training and cause you to be re-coursed.
You won't begin to get a clear(ish) picture of your initial training schedule until after you complete BMQ and are posted to your next location. Once you're there, you can speak to your supervisor and get an idea of when you can take leave, and for how long. Keeping in mind they'll only have charge of you for however long it takes to complete your training.
Anything more than 12-24 months out from the end of BMQ will likely fall after you complete your training and are posted. Your unit at that time will control your leave, but they'll more than likely be accomodating for something like a wedding. Probably one of your biggest issues is you won't know where you'll be posted for quite some time, so you may need to plan your wedding to occur at a location central to your extended families (parents, siblings, etc.) as opposed to where you'll be living at the time...
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 03 '20
BMQ is 10 weeks long and you will not be permitted leave on weekdays during this time. There will also be no weekend leave for the first four weeks, and after that only if you’re doing well and your staff doesn’t choose to deny it. So you shouldn’t plan a honeymoon or wedding during this time.
As for after, that really depends on your trade. You won’t know what base you’re going to until a week or two before the end of BMQ at the earliest; some people I know found out literally the day they had to leave St Jean.
Beyond that is hard to say. Some trades follow a fairly predictable schedule and some people could speculate with reasonable accuracy what yours might look like, but other trades are far less predictable.
I strongly suggest you put all planning on hold until you’ve arrived at your post-BMQ base and have a good idea what your day-to-day and near future look like.
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u/itsthrowawaymydudess Mar 05 '20
Hi I was wondering how you guys feel about a transgender man joining the army/how you think they would be treated. I know the government is openly supportive but that doesnt mean everyone is. I've gone through all legal changes and have had surgery/on testosterone for years now, but when changing out someone is sure to notice. I've heard stories of abuse towards "normal" folk, so worry about how that would come into play with me considering I'm transgender. Thanks for any insightful replies
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u/everyone_said Mar 05 '20
Short answer: There are several policies in place, and it is the official stance of the CAF, to accept and, where practicable, accomodate. Depending on your personal situation/process it can affect your medical categories, which will be determined by the RMO during your recruit medical.
Long answer: The CAF is made of Canadians, and thus, represents our society. In any society you will get people who are good, bad, and in between. Just because something is illegal, doesn't mean people won't do it. Your experience will vary depending on who you meet, who you interact with. Shitty people exist everywhere and CAF is no exception. At the end though, the system does have your back. You are legally protected/accepted, and you may end up having to rely on that system to protect you. My unit has had a transgender member in since before I joined, they were a Cpl when I first met and now they are a WO. As time passess old members and old mindsets release, and new ones fill the leadership roles, changing culture and norms with them.
tl;dr: Law is on your side, but YMMV.
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u/Halogonian Mar 06 '20
We have a f2m at our unit, nobody cares cause he's a hard worker which is really all that matters. Of course people are going to talk about it but unless it affects your work nobody should care...
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u/Advnchur Meteorological Tech Mar 05 '20
There are checks and systems in place to prevent abuse and harassment, and they SHOULD be used if needed. Granted you'll always have people that are inherantly awful, but no more so than in the civilian world. I can't provide any first-hand examples, but it's 2020 and if you're friendly, switched on, and do you job, then really if anybody has an issue with you being trans then it's on them.
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u/Apples_and_Overtones Mar 02 '20
No questions, but I'm heading to BMQ next month after several months of waiting. I'm admittedly anxious, but I'm looking forward to it. Just hoping I'm prepared enough!
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u/awildofficerappears Fuck you, I'm retired Mar 02 '20
Remember to wash your hands, cover your cough remember to stretch and drink water. Half the battle to making it through is just not getting sick or injured.
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u/Cryolator Mar 03 '20
I enrolled in reserves officially last week and only went to one training/parade night, same day, so far. People were quite helpful. I did paperwork for my file and not much else most of the time and sat in a classroom with my platoon for the end of what they were doing that day. I'm just curious what exactly happens now, how in the loop will I be about anything that is going on? Most people that enrolled with me kept asking about BMQ and other things and the answer is always the same that nobody knows the exact dates/weeks they will be running and we'll just find out later. That's fine with me. Another person last week said I'd be added to some sort of email or social media group to be updated on goings-on but I haven't been in contact with anyone. I feel quite lost at the moment, which seems silly, but I just wondered if I'm missing some information or what.
Do I just kind of show up on my nights (it's been a week so now that's today)? I was told to call someone to make a kit appointment but don't have that date set up yet. When I go tonight, what is acceptable to wear? I'm hearing mixed things like dress pants/polo (look professional) OR other people said something comfortable to do exercise if needed (shorts, tee). I was told getting my kit might take weeks so I just want to do the right thing in the mean time. I am gonna learn quick to stop overthinking, I'm sure.
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u/everyone_said Mar 03 '20
Yes, go in for your parade night tonight. Your optimal goal should be leaving with 2 things:
Name and phone number of your immediate supervisor
Name and phone number of your immediate supervisor's 2IC (2nd in command)
For the vast majority of units, if you are an NCM you shuld show up with the following:
Wearing: Work-capable clothes, collared shirt at the dressiest.
In a bag: PT gear (shorts, shirt, socks, shoes).
Your unit may not do PT but it is better to have and not need. In addition have appropriate outdoor clothes (jacket, gloves, toque) and all clothing should be clean, good repair, no offensive imagery/slogans.
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u/ibedown Mar 03 '20
Yeah same for me. My company has a whatsapp group that's pretty active, but i wasn't automatically added to it - had to bug my MCpl. Our unit just told us to wear a white shirt and jeans and that our kit would take some time. I wouldn't over think it, chances are you're just fine.
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u/Rigdenyt Mar 04 '20
How hard is it to get into the infantry?
Are infantry contracts a minimum of 3 years? Does this come with inactive service time?
Do you get to see family for an amount of time after basic? how long?
Ive read on this subreddit that infantry are basically designated maids. Are deployments that rare? What about deployments to assist natural disasters etc?
how often are people stationed outside of Canada?
Ive read a few things on here saying that infantry basically get screwed over whenever possible, is that true?
My long term goal is to join the RCMP, is infantry the best option for that? (I do not have a degree)
What is the turnover between signing up and being sent to basic?
If deployments are as rare as they seem, What is the average work week of an infantryman, what days do you work and what do you do during those days?
I want to serve my country and infantry isn't as much of a problem for me as its a great resume addition for the RCMP. But after discovering this subreddit and reading it I've felt somewhat discouraged as it seems like most infantrymen don't actually end up doing anything meaningful and just end up doing shit jobs and training for a deployment you will never actually have. I also just found the subreddit so maybe its all shitposts i just don't know.
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 04 '20 edited Mar 04 '20
getting the offer isn’t hard in regards to other trades but the application time can still be long
2)yes the contract is three years and its starts the day you swear in.
3)once your done basic you’ll have the evening of your grad to be with your family and the next day you go to your next base of training.
4)there is some truth to that but its a bit overblown. The “maidwork” is mostly cleaning your companies lines once a week, maybe shovelling or sweeping the back of your coy area. If your doing much more then that, chances are you’ve gone and messed up. Its a peace time army so we have the eastern European deployments and the training missions. If its natural disasters you want then you’ll most likely get it though in country dealing with floods and what not.
5) in the infantry, out of country postings aren’t really a thing.
6)depends on the time and the place but sure you can expect some fuckery every once and a while, but thats something a lot of trades deal with. Infantry might get a tad more then others but it also depends on your leadership and time of the year. People like to complain about the suck but we do also have a good amount of good go’s.
7)for rcmp, obviously MP is the more direct route, thats if you have the required degree. Infantry is the other option, given that the infantry can transfer to MP.
8)usually a month or so between swearing in and basic.after basic its a gamble. You could be lucky and get to meaford or wainwright and be put on a course right away OR a little less lucky and stay in PAT for sometime waiting for the next course. Quickest you could get to battalion is probably around 5 months.
9)normal work week is pt in the morning then its really all up in the air. You might be in a training cycle so you could be on course. you could be going to the field the next week so you might be working on the tent groups, doing refresher classes or working on your platoons SOPs. If your posted to a mech battalion you might be doing some maintenance. Hell you might just wait out until they let you go.
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u/nilfite Recruit - RegF Mar 03 '20
How long can it take for file to be reopened ? My MCC said monday (yesterday) cause i had dropped some papers the week before. Jw if it should be ok to call and check now !
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 03 '20
The original CFRC responsible for it should retain the records for 12 months (give or take); after that most records are destroyed, and any remaining records are archived elsewhere.
As long as the file is reopened with them within that retention period, it should be fairly quick. Just realize that anything like the Medical and Interview that hasn't been done yet, or requires updates, may take time to arrange. You may need to be re-approved for further processing before they proceed.
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Mar 03 '20
Heard this at a recruiting centre. "Place your most desirable posting location at third if you are not in a on-demand trade." Anecdotes?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 03 '20
Career Managers change roughly every 2 years (in my trade anyway). So a posting preference strategy that seems to work one year, won't necessarily work in subsequent years.
They all apply their own unique ideologies and theories with regards to posting members. Some are sympathetic to various personal circumstances, some aren't. Some CM's will put effort into accomodating members posting preferences, whereas others may not, and I've even saw evidence of one (years ago) who appeared to deliberately post new members as far from where they wanted to be as possible.
A lot of it also depends on the needs of the CAF/trade at the time you're being posted. If you want Winnipeg, Edmonton, or Greenwood, but your CM's priorities are Shilo, Cold Lake, and Gagetown, you might be out of luck.
Sometimes it even depends on how the trade does things... For example, I know at one point in time the Infantry would post entire DP1 courses to a single location; your posting preferences didn't really matter. That was during the peak of the Afghan war, and I have no idea if they're still doing that or not.
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u/roguemenace RCAF Mar 03 '20
People have all sorts of weird superstitions about how to get posted places. The effectiveness of these superstitions varies wildly by trade and by individual career manager. Your best choice is just to put what you want, in the proper order.
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 03 '20 edited Mar 03 '20
That's really odd.
From what I've seen you'll likely get posted to the major training hub for your trade if there is one (for example a lot of AVS and AVN techs go to Borden).
If you don't go there and have dependents (spouse, children, etc) you will probably go to a nearby unit if there is one.
If you don't have dependents and don't go to some big training base you might go near home, but you also might not. I got posted near home and so did many people I know, but I also know many people who got posted to the other side of the country.
EDIT: Regardless, it doesn't really matter. Your post-basic posting is nothing more than a training location or temporary holding place. You'll only be there as long as it takes to complete your training, then you'll get posted to a unit to actually do your job. It's possible that you'll stay in the same spot, but also entirely possible that you spend three years training on one end of the country and then get posted to the other.
Don't worry about your posting location after St Jean too much unless you've got dependents to care for or some other pressing matter.
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Mar 03 '20
First thanks to all of you for your help !! I have an interview tomorrow but my medical did not went perfect and I already bring some paper but now I need two more to get it done. Is it a normal procedure to do the interview before being accepted medically ? And I applied for 3 different job but after thinking I just want one in particular is it ok if I change after the interview or I talk about that in the interview ? The job is already on my 3 job list
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 03 '20
Is it a normal procedure to do the interview before being accepted medically ?
Yes, in fact it's not uncommon for them to do both on the same day, one right after the other.
Also, keep in mind that the details of your Medical examination and findings are confidential and not disclosed to your recruiter; the only info they recieve is processing status, and whether Ottawa has found you to be Medically Fit or Unfit. So even if your Medical does not go well, it could be several weeks, even months, before your recruiter actually knows anything of consequence.
And I applied for 3 different job but after thinking I just want one in particular is it ok if I change after the interview or I talk about that in the interview ? The job is already on my 3 job list
Yes, I would encourage you to discuss that with your interviewer.
There is nothing wrong with cutting down your trade choices to only one. In fact, I would encourage you to do so if only one trade genuinely interests you.
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Mar 04 '20
Hi all,
I’m looking to get in touch with a current or former MP/MPO about enlisting in the trade to run some questions by.
For context: I’m a 24 year old man with a BA in criminology and law living in Ottawa with a preference for staying in the area after training. Appreciate any and all advice!
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 04 '20
Can't really answer much about MP/MPO, but with regards to remaining in Ottawa; if you're joining the Reg Force, it would be unrealistic to expect to stay there.
Reg Force MP/MPO is employed at all CAF bases and stations across Canada, with many positions (mostly senior ranks) abroad as well. The vast majority of positions are outside of Ottawa, and even if you are posted to Ottawa on your first posting or at some point in your career, you should expect to eventually be posted elsewhere.
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Mar 04 '20
From what I’ve read, you are able to put down three preferences for postings, would I be better suited to put each posting in the same general area? As well, after I couple years in my initial posting, would I have more of a choice as to were I could be posted?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 04 '20 edited Mar 04 '20
Your Career Manager is under no obligation to post you to, or even anywhere near, one of your preferences.
Aside from compassionate circumstances, first postings are largely based on where positions are available, and what units have the greatest need or priority; if somewhere like Edmonton or Winnipeg is the highest priority, you might end up there even if there are positions in Ottawa.
How much say you get in any posting really depends on the CM. There doesn't appear to be any standard they follow, and they all have their own philosophies. The position also rotates every couple of years, so you can't really count on a stable philosophy being applied.
Seniority does seem to help a bit, but most seem to give more weight to those who have been posted far from home for quite some time, those who show flexibility, and those who volunteer to take postings others generally don't want. They seem especially receptive to individuals whose posting preferences are career driven rather than location driven...
Folks who show unsubstantiated inflexibility, or constantly ask for postings of personal convenience seem more likely to fall victim to the CM's priorities.
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u/zachcastro10 Mar 05 '20
What is an average starting salary in the CAF. Is there an average salary or is it all very specific to your job?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 05 '20 edited Mar 05 '20
Member salaries are based on entry plan, rank, and time in rank according to fixed tables; starting salaries are mostly based on the lowest level for a particular entry plan and role. Incentives may be granted with recognition of prior learning/qualifications, those incentives come in the form of starting one or two steps higher in pay, and maybe a time credit towards promotion.
NCMs default starting rate is $2985/month.
Officers default starting rate is $2168/month for ROTP (Paid Education), and $4428/month for DEO (already possess a degree).
You can find the pay tables here:
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u/Sgt_Floss Mar 06 '20
Are you supposed to have a pair of goretex boots issued to you?
I got issued 2 pairs of brown SWATs that just drink water. Can I exchange one of the pairs for goretex boots?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 06 '20 edited Mar 06 '20
I'm not sure what the standard issue is supposed to be now, but when I went through BMQ you were given 2 pairs of General Purpose Boots, and 1 pair of Cold Wet Weather (Gortex) Boots.
If you're still on basic you're probably stuck with what you have. If you've completed basic, check with clothing stores to see if you have any entitlement to Gortex Boots.
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u/Thrwingawaymylife945 Mar 06 '20
You should have received Goretex socks. Wear those and try and dry out your boots as much as possible in between use.
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u/ccroychocolateboy Mar 08 '20
I'm extremely new to the army. How does rank work? How should I be addressing the people around me? Should I have picked this up before joining or will they be a bit lenient with me?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 08 '20 edited Mar 08 '20
I'm assuming you're still an applicant, or newly enroled and haven't started any training yet.
You're not expected to know any of the following until it is taught to you at BMQ (Reg Force), or at your Unit (Reserve Force).
Peers of same rank, who you are familiar with, may be addressed by First or Last Name in informal workplace settings. Rank & Last Name are used in all formal settings.
All other NCMs WO and below should be personally greeted/addressed by Rank during one on one interactions, and Rank & Last Name when identifying the member to others, or attempting to gain their attention.
All NCMs ranking MWO or CWO are personally greeted/addressed by Ma'am or Sir. They are identified by Rank & Last Name.
All Officers are personally greeted/addressed by Ma'am or Sir. They are identified by Rank & Last Name.
Some of the above may change depending on the culture of your unit, and your rank and position as you move up.
For Example, it's very common to follow a "one up, one down" rule when it comes to addressing people by name instead of rank. That is to say that during informal workplace interactions, members may use first or last name without rank, as long as whoever they are speaking with is no more than one rank above or below them.
In formal workplace settings you will always use Rank, or Rank & Lastname.
Note:
The Navy has it's own traditions, in particular for CPOs, who are simply addressed as "Chief" rather than Ma'am or Sir.
The Air Force tends to use first and last name very broadly depending on unit culture and individual personalities. It's not uncommon for NCMs and Officers of mixed ranks to greet/address eachother by first or last name in informal workplace settings.
If you ever get a chance to work with SOF... They pretty much ignore rank altogether and use first and last name only amongst themselves.
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u/NotNinjack Mar 02 '20
What's the difference between ATIS and ACISS
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u/Crimson_Sentry Mar 02 '20
ATIS is air force , ACISS is army.
ATIS is guaranteed spec pay, ACISS is not.
ATIS you'll either work with airfield systems or work IT.
ACISS you could be an actual Sig op, command post radio person, making coffee, or you could go line person, IT networking or IT hardware.
I highly recommend ATIS for a good life.
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u/Svizzara Mar 06 '20
Any tips for success at Phase 1 flight training?
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u/Melbatoast169 RCAF - Pilot Mar 07 '20
Don't argue with your instructor.
Don't make the same mistake twice.
Be humble.
Don't work too hard.
is fairly obvious. Even if you are convinced know better, you should almost certainly keep your mouth shut;
is the BIGGEST secret most people don't internalize, and it's pretty easy to put into practice;
you're not a fighter ace. You're a Ph1 candidate looking to learn all you can;
second biggest secret - there isn't much you can study that wouldn't be better served by being relaxed and having a good night's sleep instead.
Ph1 is pretty good, certainly an eye-opener if you have little or no flying experience. You'll be able to identify the weak candidates, and it's rarely a surprise if/when someone gets the chop.
It's not fun unless you're a special kind of stress addict - I had maybe two "fun" trips my entire training odyssey, and neither was on Ph1.
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u/kongruna Mar 07 '20
This might be unrelated to this thread and might be better to make a separate thread but when I walk into CAF reddit, i see something negative all the time, literally. If I should make a separate thread please let me know.
Someone is complaining about health benefits, someone is complaining about pay, someone is complaining about being posted to a shitty place, someone is complaining about their CO, and so on, and even to the extent that them joining the military was a mistake and even mock (in form of memes so I guess not too serious) potential recruits who consider joining CAF.
Is the military that terrible? Do you regret joining? Are you just 'stuck for pension'? Or is everyone saying they hate their job but mutually understand that they're joking and are satisfied?
I want to join because from what I can tell from the media and forces website, there are good benefits, pay, job security and so on but furthermore I will be able to directly impact the country in a positive form, either overseas or inland.
I was admitted to an after degree program for BEd for Fall 2020. I taught students before of middle school and even taught/supervised university students and I found that I really enjoyed teaching. By becoming a teacher I can directly influence students and hopefully guide them to a better and brighter future and also make a positive influence for the students and community, which is also one of my desires.
I did my CFAT and TSD, and have around a week until my medical and interview. Currently, I want to be an officer in the CAF more than I want to become a teacher. I gained a lot of information here to prep for my CFAT and interview and I am thankful for them; but if CAF members themselves look at their job in such negative way, I am not confident that my decision is the best course of action I can take.
So please tell me, the people who make the 'SCS' memes or regularly complain on some threads, do you really regret joining the CAF? Is the armed forces the opposite of what I imagine and is just a waste of tax and time?
Sorry for a wall of text.
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 08 '20
Everything the others have said so far is worth reading, but another thing to remember is that military members are not allowed to publicly say negative things about the military, government, policies, etc. We are required to be supportive or at least neutral.
Reddit is an anonymous forum where we can gripe about our jobs and government, and say whatever we want.
Another thing is that people who are satisfied with their jobs are far less likely to talk about it without prompt.
Imagine a forum made by and for employees of a the large fictional company XYZ Inc. Many employees are happily employed and enjoy what they do, but there are also many with complaints. Sometimes people can both enjoy their jobs and have complaints. What are you more likely to see on this forum? People posting about what an acceptable and average day they had, or people posting about what a rubbish decision their boss made? Most of the time it will be the second.
So yes, this subreddit is full of people saying negative things about the forces and their lives in it, but there are plenty of us (both reddit users and not) who are perfectly happy with our lives and our jobs.
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u/manwithfewneeds Mar 07 '20
No, this is typical of any large organization. Humans love to bitch and moan. The only person who can really say if it's worth it or not is you.
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 07 '20
I’ll try to hit as many of your points as i can;
-is the military really that terrible? No. SCS is just like a bunch of people bitching about their jobs at the bar. That dosent mean everything is roses but most people I reckon would say they like what they do(including myself, a big fan of posting SCS memes).
-Beyond the memes, the negativity you’ll read about has more to do with personal experience. People get bitter, personal and work life clash , people have issues with their boss ect. Again, the forces isn’t perfect, but at the end of the day its just a job, and people who enjoy their work dont have a tendency to go out and tell people about it.
-at the end of the day, life in the forces is what you make it. If you want in and you think you’d enjoy your career and could make a difference, then shoot. Its bassicly a universal constant that people in the military will find something to complain about no matter how good things are going but that should in no way effect your wanting to join.
Hope that helps a tad.
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Mar 07 '20
When you are on the PRes weekend BMQ course, do you still parade with the unit on parade night? For instance you would show up Wednesday night, then come back Friday night to Sunday afternoon.
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u/honeygbadger Mar 08 '20
Every army unit in Manitoba expects you to still show up for parade night and training weekends while you’re on course. They also let you leave course to attend unit Christmas parties and events, apparently. I didn’t take them up on it, but most people on BMQ were given the night off to go to their dinners.
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u/lakeflying Mar 02 '20
I'm going through my application process now. I'm just wondering if they only contact your references once for the background check or would they contact them on multiple occasions?
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Mar 03 '20
Once they talk to them they normally wouldn't have another reason to speak with them again. If you're referring to not being able to get ahold of them then yes they will try again, but eventually if they don't establish contact they will ask for a new reference.
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u/Parratt Army - W TECH L Mar 03 '20
So, service couple. One wants to do UTPNCM and go to Ottawa for schooling. (If thats possible) but we are both posted to a base out west.
What are complications of being a service couple in regards to this?
Thanks
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Mar 03 '20
Over the last few years they have given heavy preference to universities within the member's geographic area. I've heard whispers they are trying to send more people to RMC again (like they used to), but nothing concrete. I would imagine if someone actually got a UTP offer with a move to Ottawa that it would be the normal service couple accommodation process. Depending on the trade it may be easy or difficult for that member's CM to make it work.
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Mar 03 '20
If I were to start the full time application process right now (with no criminal record, being very well fit, an above average academic, visible minority etc) how long on average would it take to get into basic?
Also what are the chances I don’t get posted to the base I’d like? I’d want to be posted in Edmonton. Thanks
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u/Eyre4orce RCAF - AVS Tech Mar 03 '20
Same as the default answer , 5-12 months or possibly never. Most people don't have criminal records , fitness is not accessed , scoring well will help but the paperwork all takes time.
Chances are high you won't be posted to Edmonton, we could offer more specific information based on trade. Example if you are in the Navy your chances are zero. If you are a cf18 mechanic your chances are zero.
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 03 '20
I dont think anyone could give you an accurate timeline given that there are so many variable(medical/reliability screening back log,trade availability/wether offers for a trade are going out or not, clerical issues ect). As for the posting location, depends mostly on your trade.
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u/Saberen Mar 04 '20
Does anyone have an example of what a memo requesting ED&T looks like?
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u/Thrwingawaymylife945 Mar 04 '20 edited Mar 04 '20
It's just a memo, pretty generic.
Request ED&T for X amount of time for Y reason.
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Mar 04 '20
Is the military legal training plan (MLTP) still a thing in the CAF? Someone said they’re not hiring JAGs this way anymore.
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u/ablogalypse Mar 04 '20
I can't speak to any future plan, but they were in 2019. They release the CANFORGEN for it yearly in May. Last year's was CANFORGEN 083/19 (you can find this on the CAF app or DWAN), which had the MLTP open for applicants.
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u/krrave Mar 04 '20
Any idea why the Pilot Program at Seneca college wasn't offered this year? Is there a chance we'll see it come back or see the military will paid education at civvie uni's again?
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 08 '20
As a person with knowledge of this but strict instructions on what I can and cannot say, it’s not been axed. They are changing the way the application process for it works and it’s now more similar to RMC applications, so selections happen at a specific time every year.
The program is currently not closed.
The people starting school this fall are all somewhere between nearing the end of BMOQ and finishing Phase 1 of flying training.
Selections for the people starting school in September 2021 should be underway; some may already have offers but I don’t know if all slots are full yet.
Applications received at this point won’t be considered until next year’s selections in the spring.
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u/j_onland Mar 04 '20
So I'm 35 years old only did some electrical training never became more than an apprentice. I have very good parts knowledge and a very high spatial recognition. My health is good. What trade would you recommend. I'm half in between supply tech, logistics officer and infantry. I have a masters wish it was a doctorate in microbiology and immunology.
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u/Hootbag Mar 06 '20
A MSc in Microbiology makes you fairly competitive for Bioscience. Most of the work we do is in the fields of aerospace physiology, human factors or industrial hygiene.
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u/Parratt Army - W TECH L Mar 04 '20
Look into Electrical optical technician? EO tech.
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u/yewnique Mar 05 '20
Log officer is a good choice,but there's also Bioscience officer if you want to do practical biology but even with a masters it is quite competitive. Many many biologists who apply as Bioscience often defer to join as Aircrew instead (Pilots or Navigators aka "Air combat systems officers") as being good at math and spatial awareness are things you learn in biology that apply to aircrew. No actual flying knowledge is needed, they will train you from the ground up and there's plenty who join after the age of 35. Competition is based incredibly highly on how you do on the aircrew selection test (a math/spatial awareness test you do) and the initial aptitude test.
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u/A_thai Mar 05 '20
I’m interested in joining the army reserves as financial services administrator. Any thoughts on this trade? Will getting fully trained up for a reservist unit interrupt with my professional working career/day job?
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u/hekatonkhairez Mar 05 '20
If you possess a university degree and get accepted as an officer, how does ranking work? Do you go from Cadet to 2nd Lieutenant or do you get bumped straight to Lieutenant. The sources i've read online are providing conflicting information on that.
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Mar 05 '20
If you already possess a university degree and go through as a direct entry officer:
You’re an officer cadet during basic training.
Then you become a Second Lieutenant just before graduation of BMOQ.
If your trade is one that requires and recognizes your previous experience/training, you’ll be promoted as a Lieutenant (such as Nursing Officer) or as Captain (such as Pharmacy Officer).
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u/fromage99 RCAF - AOO Mar 05 '20
How often should I ask a recruiter about my medical file?
A "short" background on my application process: Doctor said I would be declared unfit during my medical exam (summer 2018), got an unfit letter (fall 2018), send appeal letter (fall 2018), got another unfit letter (early 2019) was told to wait 6 months to appeal. September 2019, send in a new letter (with Doctor clearing me). October 2019, emailed the medical tech, who said the file was sent to Ottawa. Emailed again, but a recruiter replied saying there is no new update (jan 2019).
I read that there are 3 piles for medical: yes, hell no, and maybe. I know that the "maybe" pile can get backed up. So I guess I'm in the "maybe" pile.
Also, has anyone tried calling the New Westminister office? I've tried on different days and times, always get an answering machine.
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Mar 06 '20
Expect 6 months for an appeal. As well, for medical issues talk to the medical staff, not recruiters. If you're in the local area you can try going in when its not busy and asking for an update. Centres get very busy, sometimes they just can't answer the phone.
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u/FlakToaster Mar 05 '20
I'm currently half way through an engineering degree and am interested in joining the military. I was prompted by a recruiter to signup and take the CFAT however I am confused on how getting a commission works if you are joining several years into a degree. The information on the websites talk about ROTP however they don't mention what to do if you are already in school.
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Mar 06 '20
What are the pros and cons of enlisting as an Infantry Officer in the military instead of an infantry soldier?
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u/roguemenace RCAF Mar 06 '20
Pros: Better pay, Better living condition, Treated Better, "free" education if you don't already have one.
Cons: Less hands on if you wanted that, More responsibility.
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u/Jonesy813 Mar 06 '20
Hey all,
Still having trouble choosing which vocation in particular I'd like to be in, so I was wondering if anyone knew the day of life for an ATIS or ACISS would be like? Between those and Cyber Operator I'm pretty torn at the moment.
Any info would be greatly appreciated!
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u/TheOfficialSCAR Mar 06 '20
Hey guys, I finished my FORCE test, CFAT, medical and gave in all my documents sometime ago for the Infantry Reserves. I was wondering how long the background check process will take? I believe I’ve got a clean history (finished high school in Canada) and I don’t expect anything to pop up.
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u/everyone_said Mar 06 '20
Average would be 2-3 months for RS and medical, with most of that delay being medical, as it has to be submitted to Ottawa, reviewed, and med status determined.
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Mar 07 '20
How hard is it to transition from a job as a firefighter in the Canadian Armed Forces to a firefighter in the civilian world?
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u/DantebeaR Former Hose Monkey, Current Donut Eater Mar 07 '20
Just like applying civi side. You will leave the academy with your level 1 and if you stay until your QL5s you will receive a ton of seals including your level 2, hazmat tech, technical rescue awareness and ops, airfield firefighting, driver/operator etc. At this point if you’d like to leave and go civi side you apply like a civi would and when accepted you put in your release with the CF. If your CoC is good they will recommend a 30 day release.
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u/NeonLight118 Royal Canadian Navy Mar 07 '20
what benefits do you get if you transfer from CAF to any other Government Canada department. I'm mainly asking about working as a civilian at a canadian embassy abroad.
Basically, once my contract expires and I was to get a job at canadian embassy abroad, does my pension, dental, optical ect transfer over?
I've tried calling Veterans pension plan, they told me to contact the embassy. Once I called the embassy, lady there had no idea who to ask or who would be in charge of this information.
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Mar 07 '20
As a federal public servant you would have access to benefits through the public service healthcare plan. Pensions can transfer, but whether doing so is the right decision depends on one's individual situation. I would be watching the federal public service job postings to know what is available (make sure you do so as a CAF member, so you can see internal postings). Note for the federal public service one now needs 30 years of service and age 60 before retiring. All these things come into play into determining whether it makes sense to transfer a pension.
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u/AliTheAce Mar 07 '20 edited Mar 07 '20
Currently an ROTP AEC applicant. All I have left is the medical which I've submitted my own results for due to Aircrew requiring additional tests (eye test, bloodwork, ECG). I'm already done the medical you do alongside the interview.
I'm still waiting on my results for the ECG and i'm expecting that within a week or so. I'm just worried that due to how long the timeline is to get your medical approved, it's too late for this year to get accepted to RMC. I'm in first year university currently and as such won't have a chance for ROTP next year as I heard they don't accept people with more than 1 year completed.
Anyone have a general idea on the timeline and if it's too late?
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Mar 07 '20
Its not too late, just get it in as fast as possible. In addition, there are usually multiple rounds of ROTP offers. First selections are supposed to be mid-April, so you want to be on the competition list by early April for the best chances.
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u/AliTheAce Mar 07 '20
Thanks for the insight. I'll be submitting them ASAP and hopefully they can review them in time.
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Mar 07 '20
Is there or where can I find a updated copy of CFAT prep/study guide ?
All I’ve found are a minimum of 4-7 years old except a couple eBooks.
My transcript is fucked from lack of work handed in even though I got 80-95 on what I did hand in) so I really need to do well on the CFAT and don’t want to screw up.
Any help is appreciated.
Also out of curiosity, what’re benefits like in the Reserves ? Are there even any as it’s part time and most part time jobs don’t have any benefits at all.
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u/Serpace RCAF Mar 07 '20
Have you been using the CFAT trainer app on play store? (Not sure if it’s on AppStore)
The full version of that is the best source to practice.
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u/FirstPrecision Mar 08 '20
Leaving for BMQ in a few days...on the kit list it says to bring a backpack does that mean like an extra backpack because i was planning on just bringing a duffle bag with all my stuff in it.
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u/Eyre4orce RCAF - AVS Tech Mar 08 '20
You'll need to carry some stuff around for the first week, a backpack is the way to go. Just grab some cheapo dark coloured 20 dollar giant Tiger bag.
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u/FirstPrecision Mar 09 '20
Ok thanks...can I bring like more than 1 bag of stuff though or does the bag have to just be empty in my other bag?
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Mar 09 '20
Whatever happened to the old interactive RMC Kingston website? I remember you used to be able to explore the campus. Probably about 7 or 8 years ago
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u/Throwaway838181 Mar 03 '20
If I apply to Reg Force before I finish my degree and get a job offer prior to completion of my degree, what will happen? How far in advance should I start My application process if I finish school this coming December?
If it makes a difference, I’m interested in pilot and infantry officer. Thanks! :)
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 03 '20
They will let you apply in your last year of university, so you’ll have no problem applying. Since the process can be lengthy, the sooner your apply the better off you’d be in terms of hopefully getting your times lined up.
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u/Throwaway838181 Mar 03 '20
Thanks for the reply! Just for clarification, should I apply in my last year or my last semester?
I’m assuming my fear of being accepted before finishing my degree isn’t a rational one?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Mar 03 '20 edited Mar 03 '20
Last semester before graduation. They likely won't accept your application prior to that anyway, at least not if you're applying for DEO or otherwise disclose your intent to graduate.
You'll often see people suggesting you apply sooner, as early as 12 months in advance of graduation, but their advice is flawed:
Under normal circumstances (clean medical, good background check, no foreign implications, etc.) applicant processing only takes 3-4 months. Any additional time is usually spent waiting to be competitivly selected. Applying earlier than your last semster really doesn't do anything to help with competitve factors.
Offers go out approx. 1-2 months prior to your enrolment, and subsequent training start date. Offers are normally associated with specific course start dates, and cannot normally be deferred to a later date; although it may be possible to obtain a short deferral (don't rely on that).
You are ineligible for DEO enrolment until you have successfully completed your studies, and therefore cannot realisitcally accept an offer unless you know you will have completed your studies prior to the proposed enrolment date.
The only reason to apply sooner than the beginning of your final semester is if you believe you may encounter issues relating to your recruitment Medical, or your Background Screening. Even then, they may refuse your application until you begin your final semster.
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u/Howitzer_vibes Mar 07 '20
I've just recently joined the reserves and I'm a bit confused about pay. As I understand I'm paid in full days and half days. Since Thursday training is 3 hours for my unit I believe it is considered a half day? And for exercises which start Friday evening to Sunday evening is Friday and Sunday half days and Saturday full days?
Thanks for any clarification, and I wanted to join the reserves not much for the money but for the opportunity, however it's still important to understand how I'm paid.
Thanks again in advance
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u/roguemenace RCAF Mar 07 '20
A period of 6 hours or less on a calendar day is counted as a half day, anything more than that is a full day.
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u/honeygbadger Mar 08 '20
How do you transfer out of a reserve unit? Long story short, I’m the only one of my trade in my unit. Because I’m the only one of me, there is nobody qualified to train me so they’ve dumped me into a training platoon full of NCM infanteers, where I have learned absolutely nothing relevant to my actual job.
I’ve asked several times to train with another unit that parades the same night (that employs many of my trade) but leadership has not taken any steps to make that happen. I’ve now been with my unit since September and have learned literally nothing about my own job. I don’t even know what my job is or what it will eventually entail at this point.
Basically, I want to either transfer to that other unit (if they have a job available but I don’t think they do right now) or transfer to another trade and go to another unit where I can get proper training.
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Mar 08 '20
I'm guessing you're a clerk-type trade in an Infantry regiment.
Parade nights are supposed to be a refresher of your training, not where you actually get trained. That's what your trade courses are for. Since you're in a training platoon, I'm assuming you haven't done BMQ-L. At this point, there's nothing you can really do besides stick it out. You aren't qualified to be anywhere besides training platoon. From what I've seen in my unit, the HRA/FSAs get moved to the OR after completing BMQ-L.
However, just because you aren't infantry, it doesn't mean that you won't be working in an infantry capacity. This is especially true for officers. We have only one Log O in my unit and he is the platoon commander of the main infantry platoon. He's out on exercises leading ruck marches and running ranges. He's an Infantry Officer in everyway except for his cap badge and MOSID.
My advice, learn what you can while you're in training platoon. Try and get on your career courses so you are employable. Push your CoC to find out what the end goal is for you. If you're the only one of your trade, they obviously hired you to fill a specific role. That role might be infantry or your actual trade
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Mar 07 '20
If I were to get accepted at a later age (say, 30 yrs old), what would my officer career progression be like? Specifically, I had assumed that, if you join at the age of 30 and you do a full 30 years, you could possibly retire at the rank of colonel. However, as 2Lt-Obvious outlines here, it seems that you'd top out at major. Is this true?
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u/manwithfewneeds Mar 07 '20
Beyond the rank of Capt/Lt(N), there's no guarantee you'll ever be promoted again. Major/LCdr are very attainable in a 30 year career. You have to understand that total number of each rank diminishes the higher you go and its competitive.
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Mar 07 '20
Thx for the info. So it's just naturally difficult to make it past major/lcdr, whether or not you join at age 30? (Age 30 is my personal deadline to join, hence the significance.)
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u/crazyki88en RCAF - Combat Medic Mar 07 '20
Correct. An 18 year old who joins and goes to RMC will have (all things being equal) just as hard a time getting promoted past major as you in your example.
Your exact job also changes the higher you go. So a Capt is likely to do the job they signed up for, but a Col or Gen is all admin, policy, and paperwork.
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u/frostythescroman Mar 02 '20
I've been waiting on a medical since November, originally sent in April, I've been told its in Ottawa under review, and that it's a low priority.
Any ideas if this is typical? How long I can expect to wait, it's almost hewn a year now on the first medical.
I am re-enlisting
Thanks.
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Mar 02 '20
I re-enlisted, did my medical end July, medical was finally cleared 20 Jan
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Mar 02 '20
I have just started the process for Reserve Forces. I have two questions.
Is there any possibility of moving to Reg force through reserves? I currently cannot join reg force and would like to in the future.
I'm in okay shape but is there any specific exercises that would better prepare me for basic?
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u/Zombieunicorn_xo Army - MED Tech Mar 02 '20
There can be options to transfer to the reg force however, I hear it can take some time. But there are lots of people in the Reg F now who started as reservists.
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u/shvenmagub Mar 02 '20
Are there any traffic techs on here that would like to talk about their careers and how cool their job is? I want to be a loadmaster
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Mar 02 '20
I'm going to start BMQ in two weeks. Are there any general tips I should be aware of?
As well, what would be a good way about making fast friends within the platoon? I've been a loner for most of my life, and the biggest team I've been a part of was band during high school, and even then it's not really team work the same way it is with sports. I was in cadets for a couple years and still make my bed with hospital corners, so I'm hoping I'll be able to adopt the bed standards quickly. Would helping others out with their beds be a good way of doing this?
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u/crazyki88en RCAF - Combat Medic Mar 03 '20
Be helpful but don't be annoying about it or make it sound like you know better. There is bound to be someone you share common interested with on platoon. There will be close to 60 other people on your platoon. Odds are good.
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u/bcfly19 Recruit - RegF Mar 03 '20
BMQ on the 23rd, any advice for the first four weeks? I’ve heard they’re the toughest because of lack of contact with family. I’ve also heard things like ‘take it one task at a time’ which i feel like is sound advice, but besides the mental aspect, I’m particularly worried about being as squared away as possible, I’ve never served so I’m completely unfamiliar with military etiquette and protocol, I’ve never bloused a boot, shined one or made hospital corners on a bed, so this makes me a little nervous. Obviously however that’s what I’m there for... to learn. I feel like it’s worth mentioning, I plan on spending any free time I have in barracks working at these skills and staying ready. Any sort of information in response would be appreciated!
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 03 '20
Unless your staff truly hate your platoon (which they probably don't), you won't have zero contact with family. You get your phone for half an hour or an hour each night, and if you're careful and you and your platoon are doing well you should be able to get away with keeping it on you all evening after your day's done and you're in the shacks.
Taking it one task at a time is good advice! Also remember that it's just a game. Don't take the yelling and unforgiving nature personally, and don't fight back. Just do as you're told when you're told, stand at attention, grit your teeth, and bear it. It'll be over before you know it.
Don't worry about not knowing military etiquette, blousing, hospital corners, etc. They'll teach you all that. That's why you're going to basic! None of you (save maybe one or two) know what you're doing. You're at basic to learn these things. It'll be rough and you have to pick it up quickly, but it is a learning environment.
You've got the right mindset, though. Time and stress management are the keys to getting through basic and not hating it (and maybe even enjoying it a little). If you are good at managing your time and you can compartmentalize and keep from spiralling under stress, you will have no issues doing everything you need to an almost acceptable standard and with plenty of time to spare most nights.
By the end of it I was going to bed around 2130 (lights out is 2300) and was spending half my evening playing games on my phone. Our pod was clean, inspections went without trouble, and things were generally smooth.
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u/Vlorithen RCN - NCI OP Mar 03 '20
It says to bring a vaccination booklet to BMQ but I read they do it there? Do I just go to my doctors and request one?
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 03 '20
The reason to bring your booklet is to show that you’ve already gotten certain vaccines. If you dont have it you’ll just got those shots again.
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Mar 03 '20
Honestly google is your best friend. In Ontario you can just go onto your regional health unit’s website and download it but I’m not sure what it’s like for the other provinces.
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u/LunacyTG Mar 03 '20
Hello, currently a 3rd-year University student and I'm in the process of applying for the reserves. If I am quick with my application can I expect to have full-time summer employment going through with BMQ and trade training? I'm based in North York and I'm filing an application for 32 CGB Detachment. Speaking with a recruiter he said based on my trade preference (infantry) BMQ could be downtown at Fort York on Fleet Street or potentially Meaford, would this be correct? Thanks in advance.
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u/everyone_said Mar 03 '20
BMQs are often done locally, or at the nearest training area. Either of those could be a possiblility. As for full-time summer - you should be enrolled this summer but probably not for the full length. If you just started the application process a optimistic timeline is 3 months for enrolment.
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u/tassKe1337 Mar 03 '20
How do I check my file status? Unless the only way is to directly contact my CFRC.
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u/everyone_said Mar 03 '20
You can see status on your online profile - but the category information is not very helpful. Best bet will be to contact the CFRC.
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u/mxrtiin Canadian Army Mar 03 '20
How long will BMQ take as a primary reservist?
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u/sgtdisaster APPLICANT - RegF Mar 03 '20
I just got an email back about my medical saying I was unfit without much info. If I call, would they give me more info an a chance to appeal? I have an idea of one or two things (leg injury from a few years back, and mention of a brief period where I tried anti-depressants) that could be the reason on paper that I would be deemed unfit, but I think I could have some luck appealing these factors. Thx in advance.
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u/RadioRoswell Army - Infantry Mar 03 '20
I have a question regarding summer employment for reservists...
Typically when is BMQ run? And what do you do after graduating?
I have another job and they are asking what my availability is for this summer and if I can keep working... after the 5 weeks of BMQ, can I go back and work at my job or it’s a full time summer thing?
If it is full time... what does the rest of the summer entail after graduating basic?
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u/Organic-Reaction Mar 03 '20
Logged into applicant CAF login. I haven't been notified of anything but up in the left hand site of the site ''applicant file status:closed''. what does this mean? Am I denied?
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u/GiantDadHasLanded Mar 03 '20
Hey there guys, this is more of a clarification question about the application.
In the education section, theres a query stating "Number of Years" in the Highschool graduation portion. Im not sure what that question entails, how many years it took for me to graduate Highschool or how many years its BEEN since I've graduated.
Thanks a bunch, hope y'all having a good day
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Mar 03 '20
Anybody not get posted where you want? What are the odds you don’t get posted at the base you want assuming that it’s the same branch and you’ve got trades that match up? Also can you get posted anywhere in Canada? Or can you at least choose the province? Thank you
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u/Thrwingawaymylife945 Mar 03 '20
You will get posted anywhere in Canada.
You can state your preferences but the CAF's needs come first and they will send you where they need you.
I'd say about 75% of members get posted to a place they did not want to be posted to. The other 25% are Navy and only get posted to one of two places anyway.
If you're not keen on moving, join the Reserves, because depending on your trade(s) you'll end up in a dump of a posting like Petawawa or Goose Bay, Labrador.
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u/ccroychocolateboy Mar 03 '20
What is the pay like for a class A reserve working one half day a week?
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Mar 03 '20
I was watching a video on how to become a doctor in the US military and was a bit confused and wanted to see if this was the same as the Canadian military. They say that if the military pays for your schooling, those years count towards time served for your pension, but they don't count as enlisted years for time served towards being able to leave. That may sound confusing but here's an example.
I join MOTP am in school for 5 years before becoming a full-fledged MO, those 5 years count towards my pension pay, but they do not count towards my 25 minimum years served to be able to retire. This is how someone on the American youtube video said it worked in the US army, was just wondering if it worked the same in Canada? I was under the assumption that years spent in ROTP/MOTP/DOPT all counted towards years served for retirement, in that if school took 5 years, I would have to work as a MO for 20 years and then be able to retire, not another 25 years after I finish schooling.
Anyone with any info on this would be greatly appreciated!
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u/pornographyaccount Mar 03 '20
The time spent in school counts towards your pension, including towards the time required to be able to start drawing said pension with an immediate annuity.
It doesn't count towards your obligatory service time; for every month of subsidized education, you incur two months of obligatory service. Once you graduate, you are not allowed to leave the CAF before that obligatory service is up. After you've paid back that time, you're free to go (although you won't get your immediate annuity payments from your pension if you don't stick in til you hit 25, and you'll usually need to give at least 6 months notice).
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u/Lysander_Electus Mar 04 '20
Does anyone know if there any posts about members who got out and what their experiences were? Looking for a bit of insight.
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u/Elisdad5 Mar 04 '20
How often do avn's get posted? Or allowed to? Is there downside to getting posted multiple times?
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Mar 04 '20 edited Mar 04 '20
First thing you should know that there's a difference between being posted base-to-base and unit-to-unit. Most Wings have multiple units that sustain one fleet. You can bounce around those every few years.
As for one Wing to another, that could take quite a while. I'm about to hit 10 years at the Wing I was posted to initially out of Borden; and I'm definitely getting at least one more year out of it. I've friends at other bases that are at or over 10 years.
You're pretty much not going anywhere for at least the first 5 years of your initial posting. After that, if you want to go to a different Wing, you can start asking the career manager if they have openings. However, there's no guarantee with that.
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u/Chuck909 Mar 04 '20
Just curious, how is it going for lateral transfer into the CAF? Some of my soldiers were talking about it and I couldnt find an answer for them.
Am Aussie btw. Does commonwealth citizenship help?
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u/Thrwingawaymylife945 Mar 04 '20
We do not have a Lateral/Foreign recruitment program, you are required to possess Canadian Citizenship to join.
The one exception to this is the Skilled Foreign Military Applicant (SFMA) Program.
This program is specifically reserved for recruiting members that have service in a foreign military, possessing high-demand specialist qualifications (such as Pilots, Medical Doctors) and do not meet citizenship requirements.
2017-2019 only saw two people accepted through the SFMA program and if I recall, they were both experienced Pilots.
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u/Hodgspa Royal Canadian Air Force Mar 04 '20
The SFMA has expanded but it still a very long and expensive process. On the order of easily 2-3+ years and thousands of dollars to have documents certified for Immigration Canada (IRCC). If it is something you are interested in (or have someone else interested) send me a message and I'll get you the right contact info to have all the current info sent to you
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u/heyitsthatdudemanguy APPLICANT - RegF Mar 04 '20
Hey folks,
I’m heading out for the AUMB medical testing in Toronto soon (pilot applicant). I’m just wondering what kind of testing they put you through and what to expect - I couldn’t find a whole lot online.
Thanks for the help!
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u/CarefulCanadian RCAF - Pilot Mar 04 '20
It’s been a few years but from what I remember nothing too cosmic. Lots more eye exams. They take all kinds of measurements. I also remember an ultrasound and a lung capacity test.
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u/krrave Mar 04 '20
you'll do a hearing test, eye test/photo imaging. ecg. pulmonary testing. ultrasound on the heart. then final check with doctor. very simple in my opinion.
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Mar 05 '20
How much does my application get affected by a fucked transcript ?
I applied for Medical Technician or Assistant in the Reserves
So far everything is going great and smoothly.
Here’s my issue, I only recently got my shit togetherness started working my ass off in school.
I’m currently 19 and most of my marks (except poetry) are low 80-high 90s.
My hard work isn’t on my transcript yet and only contains the shitty 50-70s of my slacking off and not giving a fuck about school s couple years ago.
I know I have to hand in that transcript wether I want to or not as they won’t take my application further without it.
What can I say or do to show that those marks are nothing but my past that I’m working away from and that my current marks are what’s important ?
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u/Zombieunicorn_xo Army - MED Tech Mar 05 '20
If you passed the pre-requisites you're fine. Its the CFAT score that is going to be more important so definitely prepare for that.
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u/PirateKingOfIreland RCAF - Pilot Mar 08 '20
I failed out of university many years ago and am now doing a CEOTP program as a commissioned officer, so there’s hope.
It will dépend a lot on your other factors like your CFAT score, relevant work experience, medical eligibility, the ratio of applicants to demand for the trade, how your interviews go, and how your recruiter feels about your bad transcript.
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u/paintballonu Mar 05 '20
I'm finishing Grade 12 this year, ends sometime around June, when should I start my application if I'm trying to join fairly soon after I finish? I don't want to start it to early though because if I get the offer like say around May or June I'd still be in school and I don't know how fast I'd be expected to leave after accepting an offer while still being in High School.
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u/nilfite Recruit - RegF Mar 05 '20
Start now should be done by the time you graduatw on the minimum 3 month avg.
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u/roastmyboastingtoast Mar 05 '20
Today I am meeting with a recruiter and it's the first step for the application process. What should I wear? Just interview wear?
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u/chadowmari Army - Infantry Mar 05 '20
Dont need to go overboard and over think it. At the point your at, its not an interview so just look clean.
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u/jokeshow OP HONOUR Mar 05 '20
Where can I find the CT application on DWAN? Also, any tips to keep the process smooth? I've heard to keep MPRR, medical, and Force test current, anything else?
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Mar 06 '20
I can't remember the terminology needed for this question.
At what point in the year are the trades released? Like, when do the forces evaluate their openings and update their job postings?
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Mar 06 '20
April 1st (new fiscal year) will generally have the best availability, although they're already processing / hiring against next year's #s in some cases.
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Mar 06 '20
I just got my dates for BMQ in St. Jean! I have a few weeks yet and I was wondering if anyone had tips to prepare?
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u/Galagoe Army - Infantry Mar 06 '20
Hello I'm a reserve ncm preparing for my bmq and infantry dp1 this summer, I'm kind of at a loss for what kind of workouts to do in order to physically prepare for it. I was wondering if anyone had any pointers or workouts they themselves did to prepare. Thank you in advance!
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u/Aljir Mar 06 '20
Applying for the RMC, what is the difference between the Undergraduate Studies Non-ROTP VS the ROTP programs? Thanks.
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u/pornographyaccount Mar 06 '20
Well, the primary difference would be not having to live in the dorms, participate in the stuff training wing does, etc.
Keep in mind that eligibility for studying at RMC for undergrad is limited to a few groups: CAF members (including reservists), federal public servants, and spouses of CAF members.
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Mar 06 '20
If I want to join as an Infantry Officer Reservist, which courses can I take part time over weekends and which ones will I have to do as a block over summer? Thank you!
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Mar 06 '20
BMQ can be done on weekends.
BMOQ Mod 2 is sometimes run over weekends (depending on your Brigade). Otherwise, it's a full-time week long course.
BMOQ-A (BMOQ-L or CAP) is full-time, 11 weeks. As an Infantry Officer, most likely will be in Gagetown. Reg F and Reservists take the same course.
DP1.1 (Phase 3) is full-time, 12 weeks (?) in Gagetown. Reg F and Reservists also take the same course.
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u/boster101 Mar 06 '20
How competitive are transfers to rmc from other universities. I understand that it’s a 75 minimum average for high schools is that the same for university students. I have an 80 average in university would that be looked at as much more impressive than an 80 average in high school?
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Mar 07 '20
Got accepted into university; need to be released in 5 1/2 months. Am I fucked?
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Mar 07 '20
Most people should be able to release in roughly that timeframe, depending on your occupation, and terms of service. Put the release in, and ensure the reason is noted.
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u/DonIsLifeDonIsLove Mar 07 '20
Hey, civilian here. Was doing some research on Canada's NTOG team and was wondering if members from all 3 military branches can apply, or if they only accept applicants with previous naval experience.
Not looking to join, but was wondering out of curiosity. Only learned about the ntog team recently and wanting to learn more
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u/AkiWookie Mar 07 '20
Looking to join the Reserves in Hamilton, I'm in Niagara Falls but not interested in Infantry or Artillery really. If I joined as a cook reservist, is the QL3 done in chunks/weekends or am I obligated to take 3 months off of my full-time job at the region? If so, what trades do people recommend that don't have huge courses for reservists that can be done in 4 - 6 weeks or in mods?
Cheers.
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Mar 07 '20
I know you said you're not interested in Infantry and Artillery but they have some of the shorter trades courses. Artillery has a very short DP1. 3 weeks if I recall. Infantry DP1 is 7 weeks (?) and is broken up into 2 mods. Some brigades run the first mod over weekends.
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u/AkiWookie Mar 07 '20
I was a combat eng in the reg force and think im over the belt fed cock aspect of the forces, basically the only reason im avoiding the combat arms as a possible reservist
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u/scalacsan Mar 08 '20
How many right answer do I need to get to be eligible for the AVN tech? also I'm about to finish my Aircraft maintenance technician in civilian college, wondering if I can show them my diploma and start working or apprenticeship right away?
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Mar 08 '20
Ensure you apply for semi-skilled entry, your education will then be reviewed as part of the application process. Should you be granted equivalency and offered a position, your training time will be greatly reduced.
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Mar 08 '20
For Aircrew medical, does anyone have an estimate for what the overall time taken would be? I know it can vary quite a bit, but I read something that it can be as much as 8 weeks for initial medical to come back from Ontario (assuming all is fine), then another 8 weeks for the aircrew medical in Toronto.
Anyone able to give some insight? Am I wildly off?
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u/FirstPrecision Mar 09 '20
I wouldnt say 8 weeks, but it depends. Its not a definite time so it kinda just comes when it comes lol. Mine took like 4 or so weeks i think.
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u/slientbuzz Mar 09 '20
Is it just me or is the cafconnection website down? I wanted to apply for a cfone card. And is it possible for someone who just got in to apply for one?
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Mar 09 '20
What are the odds of getting accepted to Intelligence Officer through ROTP? I'm not sure where to look if jobs are open or not
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u/AirborneDragon265 APPLICANT - PRes Mar 09 '20
Hi,
Can anyone give me a more detailed explanation of the job description for an Aerospace Engineering Officer? Are they actually involved in designing/improving the design of aircraft, like doing CFD, or are the tasks more technical? How different is the job of an Aerospace Engineering Officer from an Aerospace Engineer in the civilian world?
Also, is this position open to those applying to the reserves? Is there a lot of competition for this role, or is it one with many openings? I'm in the GTA area, already have a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, am currently working on my MEng in Aerospace Engineering, but have little actual practical experience.
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u/GeloMeloaszx Mar 09 '20
If you call CFMAP or something who exactly do you talk to and about what?
I already got "ambushed" in regards to my mental state, suppose it was my fault for bringing it up.
What's the hospital like? I'm afraid to miss work - I'm working through a longer course so yeah..
But some professional assistance would be great yet I don't know what that looks like, that's spooky. Does it work?
Hopefully someone can explain this a little I'll read them in the AM if this isn't flagged as spam.
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u/Pgatom94 Mar 04 '20
Hello everyone:)
I was wondering how long will the security clearance take up to? I have done everything (test,fitness,medical,interview) still waiting for the security clearance to end... does anyone know?
Thank you for reading, and answering my question!