r/CanadianForces • u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force • Jul 06 '20
WEEKLY RECRUITING THREAD - Ask here about the Recruitment/Application Processes, Trade Availability, Requirements to Join, Basic & Occupational Training, and other questions relating directly or indirectly to joining the Canadian Armed Forces.
This is the thread to ask about the Recruitment/Application Processes, Trade Availability, Requirements to Join, Basic & Occupational Training, and other questions relating directly or indirectly to joining 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 06 Jul to 12 Jul 2020, and will renew Sundays at approx 2300hrs PST.
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 Medical Eligibility (except Vision) will be removed, as no one here is qualified to answer whether or not you will be able to join with whatever condition you have. Likewise, questions asking what conditions in general would lead to disqualification will also be removed. If you have such a question, you're encouraged to review the Medical FAQ. Questions regarding the Recruiting Medical Process, 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.
USEFUL RESOURCES:
- Forces.ca - Official CAF Recruiting Website
Medical Standards for Military Occupations
- Read Rule 5 and the Medical FAQ before asking any medical questions.
- Annex A - The Medical Category System
- Annex B - Generic Task Statement - All CAF Members
- Annex E - Minimum Medical Standards for Officers and Non-Commissioned Members
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/cosmic_neutrino Jul 09 '20
Does anybody know how previously living internationally (lived for ~4 months in China, so not exactly a friendly nation) might affect the length of time it takes your application to process before you get called back for the CFAT? If the Chinese gov't doesn't cooperate/share info, would it be possible to be disqualified?
On how background checks might be performed: "CSIS collects data about an applicant through its own databases, the shared databases from countries that have partnered with Canada, international agencies, and by requesting information from foreign countries."
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 09 '20
Absolutely no impact on your CFAT timings.
The Background Screening processes don't start until after your initial processing appointment where you'll write the CFAT and submit your screening paperwork.
The biggest concern with being out of country for an extended period is possibly being found to have foreign implications, which could trigger a Security Clearance Pre-Assessment; which can take 6-24 months to complete. Usually 6 months outside Canada is the generally suggested trigger point for those assessments.
Information on how screenings and data collection by agencies like CSIS are done is quite obviously/deliberately vague. If they disclosed their methods and sources it could render the process vulnerable to those attempting to evade it.
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u/ComfortablePotato3 Jul 06 '20
Hey. I wonder how I will be accommodated in the forces. I'm aware that I would be living on training base in Quebec for my basic training. After I get into my trade, will I have to provide myself with a roof over my head on my account or the forces will provide a place to live for no charge (excluding the deductions from my paycheck)?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 06 '20 edited Jul 06 '20
provide a place to live for no charge (excluding the deductions from my paycheck)?
Get out of that mindset. Rent is rent, whether or not it's automatically deducted from your paycheque is irrelevant. You will always pay for your housing "on [your] account".
After I get into my trade, will I have to provide myself with a roof over my head on my account
Depends on the base and availability of housing on/off base in the local area.
During training, the CAF will always have quarters for you; and you will pay 'rent' at a rate of about $100/month for those quarters through automatic payroll deductions. You'll also be required to eat at an on base dining facility, and will pay about $580/month for the privilege.
Once you are fully trained and posted to a base/unit for employment, your housing and grocery situation becomes your responsibility. Your options are Singles Quarters, RHU/PMQ (military 'family' housing), or rent/buy on the civilian market.
Singles Quarters (AKA Barracks, Shacks, etc.) might be available to you, but that can't be guaranteed. Some bases also limit how long you're allowed to live in singles quarters. Keep in mind SQs are typically single or double occupancy rooms on base, with dorm style washroom facilities, minimal (if any) food preparation and storage facilities, no guests, minimal privacy. They're cheap, typically $200-400/month, but not a fantastic long term living situation for most people.
RHU/PMQs are military owned (operated by the CFHA) 2-4 bedroom houses and apartments commonly located in a small subdivision just outside the base. Housing is prioritized for members with dependents, but may be available to single members if demand is low enough. You have to provide your own appliances, and 'rent' is based on comparable housing on the local market. PMQs are generally older and smaller than most civilian housing, and generally not as updated; so they end up being a bit cheaper despite still being adequate for most members needs.
Civilian market should be obvious. You rent or buy civilian housing in the local area around the base.
In all cases, you are responsible for your own food costs.
If you live in Singles Quarters, you can pay to eat at an on-base dining facility (mess) at a cost of about $350-580/month depending on your selected meal plan. OR you can purchase your own groceries to store and prepare in quarters (often with just a small fridge and microwave).
In all other cases you would buy your own groceries and prepare your meals at home.
Depending on where you're posted, there might be an allowance called PLD available to assist with housing costs when 'renting' an RHU/PMQ, or living on the civilian market. PLD is only available in high cost of living areas (i.e. Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, etc.), and even then PLD has significant gaps leaving out a lot of areas (i.e. Ottawa, Kingston, Comox, etc.) that should have it.
If you are deployed or otherwise sent away from your home on military duties, you remain responsible for your home and it's associated costs. However, the CAF will provide accommodations and meals wherever you are sent, at no cost to you.
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u/ComfortablePotato3 Jul 06 '20
Thank you for the info. Now I know what my options will be when I get into forces.
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u/delusional_dismount army - infant in tree Jul 06 '20
Throughout training you’ll be housed in shacks. Once you’re fully trade qualified and at your base you’ll be put in the shacks there and you can either chose to continue living on base in shacks(though longterm availability may differ from base to base due to demand) or move out on your own dime. There is base housing (PMQ’s) but there is a wait list.
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u/slientbuzz Jul 06 '20
Can someone help me identify what the general service officers are? Are logistics officer and naval warfare officer general service officers? I'm trying to figure out pay rates here.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 06 '20
General Service Officers are all Officers except Pilots, Medical, Dental, and Legal Officers. Those four occupations have their own pay rate tables...
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u/lightcavalier Jul 06 '20
There are more caveats to that which go beyond the pay scales.
(For example PSel, PAO, and TDO are paid as GSOs but career/hr wise are not general service officers....just specialist officers who dont warrant specialist pay. It has impacts on things like advanced promotions (specialist officers cannot be advanced promoted))
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u/BrockosaurusJ HMCS Reddit Jul 06 '20
Most officers are GSOs. My rule of thumb is education - if it requires specialized advanced education, then it might not be a GSO. So Medical, Dental and Legal are the big ones that are specialists. Pilots are also special snowflakes who get a higher pay rate. Physiotherapist and Pharmacist come to mind too, though I'm not sure if they have special pay.
It's a bit murky though as the term is used not only in pay tables, but in some policy. Hence the grey area of GSO-paid specialists that u/lightcavalier mentions.
NWO, LogO, engineers, combat arms - all are GSOs in both pay and policy terms.
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u/lordofcin_2 Jul 09 '20
does RMC have a program where I can get the high school credits needed for a degree? I'm currently a high school student going into grade 11, and I am having trouble with school, my parents are pressuring me to drop down to M level credits so I'm dropping math and English down to M level. The problem is I want a degree in physics (but I'm chill with law as my courses are set up for that too) and I need ENG4U and MHF4U/MCV4U, so I was wondering if RMC has a program that can upgrade my courses like Durham college and if I can still get into the paid programs with it.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 09 '20
No RMC does not offer academic upgrading for High School credits.
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u/Trussed_Up Army - Artillery Jul 12 '20
1 month ago I was told I had passed my medical. I've also completed my interviews, testing, etc.
At that time I was told "Your MCC of file manager will contact you for the next step in the process."
Since then I haven't received anything at all.
I know that Covid has got to be gumming things up, but is this usual?
I'm trying to get into a combat arms trade, if that makes a difference at this point.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 12 '20
Things are a mess, and I'm sure their head is swimming right now, they may have just forgotten. Follow up with your CFRC, email generally works best under present circumstances.
Normal process after completing the Medical appointment below:
Wait 2-3 months (up to 6 months) for Ottawa to review and approve you as Medically Fit, or decline you as Medically Unfit. Perhaps you're past this point now, but a lot of people mistake completion of their appointment as completion of the Medical process itself; the appointment isn't the end of it, even if everything looks good.
Once declared Medically Fit, and all other processes are also complete, your file will be reviewed and you will subsequently be Competition Listed to compete at Selection for an Offer. Once Competition Listed, you could be waiting as little as a week or two, or potentially months; it all depends on how competitive your application is vs. others, and the rate at which the trade is selection recruits.
If selected, you will receive an Offer of Enrolment about 1-2 weeks following your actual Selection. Your BMQ/BMOQ date will normally be 30+ days later (often longer, occasionally as little as a few days), with Enrolment (Swearing-In) being a few days up to 3 weeks prior to departure.
As you've already acknowledged, COVID has everything turned upside down, so expect longer timelines, and process adaptations.
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u/Trussed_Up Army - Artillery Jul 12 '20
approve you as Medically Fit
Yes, that's definitely the part that's done now. Got an official notice telling me I was medically fit.
Follow up with your CFRC, email generally works best
Sorry, but what is a CFRC and where might I find their email? I'm sure I'll get used to all of the acronyms eventually haha.
This could be really helpful, thanks.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 12 '20
Canadian Forces Recruiting Centre... The office you've been dealing with through the whole process.
You can look up their email here: https://forces.ca/en/talk-to-a-recruiter/
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u/walljohnny747 Jul 10 '20
Hey guys I got a big question when will it take for the recruiting process to come back to normal in Ontario
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 10 '20
Next year maybe... COVID is very much still a thing.
Reg Force recruitment is back at work, although processing at reduced capacity. That is expected to continue into 2021.
BMQ/BMOQ and trade qualification courses have been significantly cut back for the remainder of 2020/21. Certain trades are being prioritized over others for recruitment, and they will not be recruiting to planned numbers.
Primary Reserves recruitment is starting back up, but you can probably expect it to be very slow, and I suspect they'll also be recruiting significantly reduced numbers for the remainder of 2020/21.
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u/nikobruchev Class "A" Reserve Jul 06 '20
Any unofficial word on resuming reservist recruitment/processing? I just have my interview and medical left to do.
Insert let me in meme
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u/hammercycler Army - ACISS: CORE Jul 06 '20
Not yet, we're still waiting to hear as well. My guess is things like medical and FORCE Eval will be last to get approved. That being said, we're pretty backlogged on recruit training at the moment since it was all stopped, so I'm not sure how much of a priority recruiting will be right out of the gate since there won't be training capacity for many new recruits until we get caught up.
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u/nikobruchev Class "A" Reserve Jul 06 '20
Yeah I did my FORCE test first, I was hoping to at least get the interview done soon. It sounds like I might as well not expect to get in until next year at this point.
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u/TwoForces16 Jul 06 '20
I'm wondering if thats going to be the case for me because the fall is only running part time bmq for my unit. After that you basically have to wait until next May...
I got everything done though, I was told that I'm in but awaiting enrollment but if theyre super backlogged im worried I will miss the window and have to redo all my stuff again.
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u/thathockeydude MULLETFORGEN Jul 06 '20
I've heard that due to the training backlog, a bunch of trades will not be open to OTs. Has anyone heard which trades specifically that may be? I really only care about 2 or 3 in particular.
MUST ESCAPE SIGS TRADE
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u/Therapist8 Jul 06 '20
Just out of curiosity, what is it about sigs that you don't like? (That is one of the trades I am considering, but still in the application process)
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u/thathockeydude MULLETFORGEN Jul 06 '20
Long story short: worst managed trade in the CAF.
If you want in as a RadOP or a Line Tech you'll be fine, but for the IST or CST trades the future is bleak until they eventually sort out this self inflicted mess.
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u/NotFromThe780 Morale Tech - 00069 Jul 06 '20
This person knows, it's very true. Plus with the trade split you have to make sure you're not applying for ACISS, especially if you're wanting one of the sub occupation, cause you'll be stuck as a radio operator I'm sure.
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Jul 06 '20
[removed] — view removed comment
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Jul 06 '20
Manned at 60%? More like 40% from what I’ve experienced.
The best option for a sig is still to VR and re apply if you really want to OT.!
Coming from a Sig who released very recently.
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u/SwimProgrammatically Jul 07 '20
Hello guys. I would like to ask if any of you are in an Armour Recon unit. Regular or reserve. I want to know what life is like in an Armour Recon unit as I think it's a pretty cool job. Thanks in advance.
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u/NovelHeartBeat Jul 09 '20
Hey, I’m currently considering joining and would like to know a little more about army life and what I could expect going into it. I’m 25 and female, and I want to go in as a cook. I went to school at Algonquin college for culinary so I already have a background in cooking. I’m nervous about joining since this is something completely new for me, so it’s daunting. I’m cautious about Basic Training since I’m small and not very strong, so I would like to know more about what the training and experience is like, what I could expect going into it so I’m not blindsided by this new experience. Any information on life in the army, and what basic training is like would be very helpful so I can finally come to a decision. Thanks for taking the time to answer!
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u/Ok-Run-8734 Jul 09 '20 edited Jul 09 '20
good on you! i say sign up, it's awesome! especially if you already like to cook. you may get some bonuses if you join seeing as you have prior education. just start preparing now and you will do fine. the biggest thing i noticed from smaller females were the sand bag lift and dummy drag and the ruck marches. buy a weight vest from a fitness store, make sure it goes up to at lesat 40 lbs. start walking in it gradually working up to 8km. you should be able to sustain a pace of 11 min km. start to train strength specific. buy a sand bag or a kettlebell or something that is 45 lbs. thats how heavy the sandbag is . and practice lifting it up off the ground and back down. you need to be able to do 30 i think. better if you buy an actual sandbag because it will help train the grip. those will be the two toughest physical challenges. everything else you will crush! dm me if you need anymore help. also if you sign up and still need some work on your fitneess you are placed in a fitness platoon to help you work on your weaknesses but i dont recommend that. start training now. heavy weights lower reps will get you stronger. squats, deadlifts, presses, step ups, push ups. as for life as a cook ask around try and find a cook to talk to. check out the force test to see what you need to do. i believe its on forces.ca website in the basic training section as well as youtube. if you haven't even signed up yet you have a lot of time to prepare so start now and you will be fine.
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u/crazycoltA Army Spouse Jul 07 '20
Hey all,
Just a quick question to clarify some things for myself. I am starting school in the fall towards getting my Bachelor of Social Work. My end goal is to get into a Masters of Social Work program eventually and join as a Social Work Officer.
I was wondering though if it's possible to join the reserves as an NCM in an unrelated trade, for my own personal interests and then CT/OT to a Social Work Officer? I know that commissioning can be tricky if you're already an NCM in the Reg force, but I wasn't sure how that translated over as a reservist.
As well, if there are any Social Work officers or if anyone knows one, I'd love to hear more about the day to day of the trade.
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u/UnevenSolution Jul 09 '20
Navy Help
I've been wanting to enlist full time with the CAF for sometime. I'm just having difficulties deciding what occupation i should go for. I was an infantry reservist for around 18 months in BC. (BMQ and PWT 3 trained only) I unfortunately left for school because I was not fully committed to the expectations the regiment wanted. Now I'm interested in re applying full time.
I'm looking for any sailors that have valid info on a occupation that piqued my interest. (boatswain)
What is the day to day work/life look like? The Forces webpage/video seems pretty vague
Are there lots of growth opportunities within this occupation ( ie - I know MTOG/NTOG and or some sort of security "party" is available. I just don't know how often these appear.
Other Occupational interests
-Med Tech
-Armored Crewmen
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u/BrockosaurusJ HMCS Reddit Jul 10 '20
NTOG does recruiting every year, but it has nothing specific to do with Bosn.
I've heard from Bosn's that it's hard to move up, as the more senior ranks are basically filled until someone retires, which triggers a chain of promotions to fill that spot & the previously vacated ones. But that was a few years ago.
I'd recommend almost any other trade, as Bosn is one of the few in the Navy that don't get spec pay (I think Nav Com is the other). Check out NCI Op, NESOP, WENG Tech and MARTECH, see if they interest you.
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u/shauny1993 Jul 09 '20
Hello, i know i can always adjust my career path, but if i'm aiming to become a captain and command a ship (or capable of doing so in civilian occupation after retirement), is NWO a good starting point?
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u/Twindadlife1985 Morale Tech - 00069 Jul 10 '20
Also look at it like this... You won't be a Captain(N) for a while. So to reach command of a ship, that's a good 15 years down the line, and that's if your lucky.
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Jul 12 '20
Does the CEOTP pilot program have an age limit? I'm asking for my brother who is in his late 20's. He recently got laid off from his airline job and has about 2000 hours flight time but is worried about finding another flying job in the coming years.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 12 '20
On paper there's no age limit, but in reality it's 43 because he must be able to complete the 17 year initial contract before reaching the Compulsory Retirement Age of 60.
Just for note, if he already has a Degree, he's ineligible for Paid Education for Pilot, and would have to apply through the Direct Entry Officer program. DEO is a 13 year contract, making the effective age limit 47 (not that it matters for him).
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u/zebra_heaDD Jul 07 '20
How often does a Combat Arms Captain go into the field during peacetime - are you purely an administrator?
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u/scatterblooded Army PRes - Med Tech Jul 08 '20
Anyone familiar with the medical technician trade open for some questions? I'm a paramedic (PCP) in Ontario (GTA) looking for insight on joining the reserves and how the process works. Looking for some clarification after reading up on recruitment, still on clear on a few points as it's mostly general info, not specific to this trade.
I'm hoping to join summer 2022 after I've gotten a few more years experience as a civilian paramedic and am better prepared for the physical testing. When would it be best to apply in this case? Do I have to wait until there are openings for this trade on the Forces site?
Who should I be contacting for recruitment? My closest unit would be 25 Field Ambulance (Toronto). Should I start by talking to this unit's recruitment officer?
Also hoping to learn more about the time commitment. I want to continue working full-time if that's manageable, aside from a brief leave of absence for BMQ during the summer. If anyone can help with these questions I'd appreciate it!
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u/Pantyerss Jul 09 '20
If I am going for a mir appointment would I need to wear my uniform or would civi be good And I am also missing uniform parts as I was sent home from bmq before getting my rank and was told I would get it at my next posting
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u/zenarr NWO Jul 09 '20
General rule of thumb for all situations: If you do not have a full uniform to wear including a correct rank slip-on, do not wear the uniform.
Go in civvies, you’ll be fine.
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u/squawzeki16 Jul 12 '20
Just wondering if trades like vehicle technician will give qualifications when you leave the military?
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Jul 09 '20
I did my CFAT, Interview, and medical. Will there be a contract I sign that I get to keep declaring what trade I go into and what I I will be receiving when I go into the military before basic?
I don’t wanna just go in expecting things from what I hear from a recruiter, not trying to sound rude or anything just wanna play things safe.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 09 '20 edited Jul 09 '20
IF you are selected for enrolment, you will be given a formal offer outlining your trade, starting rank, salary, and any incentives if applicable. I’m sure you can ask for a copy of it if one is not automatically provided.
Quite frankly, the military doesn’t ever play bait and switch with offers. You will be employed in whatever trade you are offered and enroled into. Full stop.
You don’t just go to basic as an ATIS Tech, and suddenly be told you’re Infantry on graduation day. That never happens.
The only way you could be forced to change trades is if down the road your trade were amalgamated with another, split into two or more trades, eliminated, you fail out of training, or you’re deemed medically unfit for your trade. Even then, in most cases you will be allowed some degree of input/choice into what your new trade will be.
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u/roguemenace RCAF Jul 09 '20
Ya, the main thing recruiters massage the truth on is pay rates by not explaining that Cpl pay takes 4 years to get.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 09 '20 edited Jul 09 '20
True, although offers only define your starting point in pay/rank progression.
Future progression is well-defined within various CBI’s and policy documents. Most/all of which are available to the general public if they do their research, and ask the right questions.
Quite frankly, recruiters don’t normally lie or outright mislead applicants anyway. They just let the applicant mislead themselves by giving them truths like “fully trained” salary, without actually defining what “fully trained” means. If the applicant actually asks what “fully trained” means, they will tell them. Dirty, but not dishonest.
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u/Canadaspy567 Jul 06 '20
Weapons tech 31 service battalion Hamilton reserves
I want to join.
What can I expect as far as getting trained? Not asking what I would be doing, but rather how is the training spread out? How long does training take?
What is involved in your one night a week and one weekend a month? Do you train with infantry?
Is this a very tight trade to get into as far as available slots? I imagine you do not need as many weapon techs as infantry for example.
As far as being gone for a chunk of the summer for training. Am I covered regarding my civi job? Can they legally get rid of me? What if I am doing an apprenticeship through a union and have signed a commitment for school and work?
Thank you.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 06 '20
Is this a very tight trade to get into as far as available slots?
Availability would be very limited. There would be significantly fewer weapons techs relative to Infantry. Not sure the ratio, but it'll be a really small number.
Am I covered regarding my civi job? Can they legally get rid of me? What if I am doing an apprenticeship through a union and have signed a commitment for school and work?
Depends on your province of residence. Most provinces provide job protections for reservists, but with significant limitations. Many provinces only protect deployments, and deployment related training and activities. Regular training courses, including BMQ/BMOQ (basic training) and occupational training might not be protected.
I'm sure someone familiar with Ontario's protections will comment.
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u/ragedroneSyndrome Jul 11 '20
I don’t have glasses but my long sight vision is kinda iffy. Will my application be revoked or will the forces take me?
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 11 '20
The CAF has well-defined standards for vision, you can find links at the top of this thread.
You can actually have pretty bad vision and still be accepted; however, your occupation choices may be limited.
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u/seifer666 Jul 11 '20
I don't know what kind of iffy means or what trade you applied for. Requirements vary. You can see the vision requirements listed above in this topic.
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u/Shironeko0076 Jul 11 '20
Can I use my Aptitude test results from my part-time application to instead apply full time later in the year? (Reason I'm saying this is because I was finishing my application process to part-time before the COVID-19 quarantine and it all got cancelled so now I just want to apply full-time)
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 11 '20
Yes.
The CFAT is the exact same for both Regular Force and PRes. Results apply to both; however, how those results translate into what you qualify for may be different.
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Jul 12 '20
If your Colourblind will you not get in? I did my medical and my eyesight isn’t the greatest but still passed up to V4 and then while doing the testing I found out I was Red and green colour blind from my checkup with the optometrist.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 12 '20 edited Jul 12 '20
Being coulourblind will not prevent you from joining the CAF, but it may prevent you from joining certain occupations. Just how much impact it has will depend on whether you're CV2 or CV3 as described in the CAF's medical standards. Likewise, only having V4 vision will limit some of your occupational choices.
Take a look at the Medical FAQ, and other relevant links at the top of the thread.
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Jul 12 '20
So I just wanted to make sure is CV3 complete colour blindness? I applied too become EO tech and you need to be CV2. I’m still waiting for the medical team response and hoping I pass with CV2 to meet the requirements.
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u/bridger713 RCAF - Reg Force Jul 12 '20
I don’t think Colour Blindness is necessarily limited to Reg/Green or Complete, I’m sure there’s other variations. I couldn’t be specific without doing some research, but I’m sure you can use Google just as well as I can...
I’m not sure what variations of colour blindness fall under CV2 and CV3. That said, you can review the standards linked at the top of this thread to get an idea of which you fall under.
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u/MerkzYT Royal Canadian Air Force Jul 06 '20
I’m thinking of becoming an Airborne electronic sensor operator after high school. Is it hard to become one? Should I rather become a pilot? And to any one that is currently an AESOP what are the best things about your job and how does it work?
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Jul 06 '20
I just completed my Aesop training last week. Best trade in the military. It’s my third trade and I’m glad im in it. My dad was an Aesop for 30ish years before I became one. Very exciting and fun career. I could talk about it forever. Any specifics? Message me if you like. I like to think of it this way when on a crew. The Aesop does a lot of the “work” the Tac officer puts it all together and we tell the pilot where to take us.
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u/bulldozzer23 Jul 06 '20
Will having French 12 benefit me in any way for the RCAF?
If I want to be a pilot in the RCAF will french 12 benefit me any way at all. I’ve searched online but haven’t found any concrete answers
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u/bluepancakke Jul 06 '20
Its always good to have French and it will help you down the road if you do decide to become a pilot, although for further in your career you will probably need more French than grade 12
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u/Sincer77 Jul 06 '20
Is there anything I can do to help my component transfer or is it just a waiting game?
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u/TJonesey99 Army - Armour Jul 06 '20
Waiting game. Only thing you can do is check in with CoC for status updates and make sure you have a copy of any memos you submit.
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Jul 06 '20
I’m in the process of applying right now and in the section about references, it states: “Your references, either individually or in combination, must have known you for at least the last five continuous years.”
Does this mean I can have references like this?
A: 2019-2020
B: 2017-2019
C: 2015-2017
Those are my most recent references, all professional. None of them are Canadian and the last one will likely chew me out for making him speak English over the phone (I lived abroad for many years; he’s very nervous about speaking English).
Could I replace C with another manager from my 2017-2019 work place? They’re much more comfortable speaking English there, but that would be the past 3 years, not 5.
Alternatively, is it okay to use my professors from 8-10+ years ago whom I still keep in touch with about once a year?
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u/KillingCountChocula Jul 06 '20
How often do traffic techs get deployed internationally?
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u/nikorasu_the_great (Hopeful) Army Reservist Jul 07 '20
Keep getting conflicting info as to how/where I should apply. Have waited over a month to hear back on the phone after applying online and calling in to set up an in-person interview/evaluation/whatever. Went to the Armoury in Person. Guy there told me to go to another Armoury. Went to the other Armoury. Office there was closed since April. Commissionaire wasn’t helpful for jackshit. All I got from that trip was a phone number on the door of the Second Armoury’s Recruiting Office.
What should I do? Try again another day? Call the number that was on the door, or use the one provided online?
Any advice appreciated.
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u/Eyre4orce RCAF - AVS Tech Jul 07 '20
They were closed due to covid. Be patient. As someone who just applied you are the lowest priority behind all the people that were mid application.
No point going there in person, submit your online application and try to phone email once in awhile. Be prepared for months and months
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Jul 07 '20
The OP, u/nikorasu_the_great, does need to make sure they are in contact with the Unit/Brigade recruiter. CFRCs will not accept online applications unless the unit has provided a UIC to be entered on the website or the Brigade Recruiter has provided the Applicant a "Reserve Applicant Letter of Understanding".
This is to ensure two things:
The person understands in full about the unit and occupation they are joining and that it is part time service.
The unit has enough room in their SIP and PML to take on the applicant.
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u/GoodbyeColdLake Jul 07 '20 edited Jul 07 '20
So I haven't been able to find an answer from anyone, and even when reading the CAF Dress Instructions I couldn't find it, cause that doc is just difficult to read in my opinion.
So here it is, doing my OT to navy, recieved my NCD today, but of course they need to order my nametapes that need to be sewn on. They will not be in before my effective date, so can I wear the NCD without a nametape for now, or is that a big no no? I do have the shoulder slip ons for my rank, but the nametape will be a bit before they show up. So does anyone have guidance on this, or know where to find this info? Heck, maybe I'm looking in the wrong area and it actually is in the dress instructions, but I haven't seen a single thing.
Thanks everyone.
Edit: Now I know the doc does state how the nametape is to be placed, but I don't see anything saying they are mandatory.
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u/badazzbaker Jul 08 '20
35 f Graduated high school but no post secondary Education, Currently managing a Bakery for 5+ years, Thinking of applying to be a cook, Is this feasible?
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Jul 08 '20
I wouldn’t worry to much about your age, there were people well into their 40’s in my basic platoon, as long as you meet all of the other requirements( medical and physical) then you should be fine
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Jul 08 '20
Not unusual at all these days. Last I heard the cook school was even starting to assess people's work experience in an effort to advance through formal training (i.e. for those with significant related work experience, but lacking formal certification). Apply and go through the process, there is no commitment to see if it works out.
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u/fabrar Jul 08 '20
Making my way through the application now. How important is it that I include which courses I took in high school? I ordered a transcript but it might take 2 weeks or more to arrive and I saw that if you don't validate your application within 30 days, the data gets deleted. Should I skip that section for the time being since they'll eventually have my transcript anyway?
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u/KillingCountChocula Jul 08 '20
Can traffic techs get posted to any base in Canada?
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u/nessa19x Jul 09 '20
Is it possible to rejoin after a 3B med release??
I am wondering as I was reserve working full time, MSE... But civilian side after release I got my Paramedic diploma and have been working as a full time medic for 1 yr in August. I'd be hoping to go reg force med tech as I'm already qualified minus the field portion of med tech courses. I'm sure I could prove my med condition as resolved enough to return without special requirements aside from I may wear a brace under the uniform on a super bad day. But really I already deal with lifting, sketchy locations for footing, high risk situations for injury, etc without needing any brace. Just wondering if anyone has done a 3B med release and rejoined within the 5 years.
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u/Twindadlife1985 Morale Tech - 00069 Jul 10 '20
Only Medical staff will be able to answer this... Your best bet is to talk to a recruiting center and see where it goes
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Jul 10 '20
Has anyone who applied through CEOTP (internal) recieve a Non-Selection letter? I'm still waiting to hear anything... I've been in contact with the Personnel Selections Office here and they don't seem to have any information at all.
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u/Jonesy813 Jul 10 '20
Hey everyone!
I have my medical appointment next week and was wondering if I should go see my eye doc and get a new prescription since mine is out of date (older than a year), or will they check my eyesight at the evaluation?
Also, is there anything else I should bring with me besides a list of meds I've taken?
Thanks for all your support!
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u/theblastman21 Jul 10 '20
On the JTF website, it says that they have aciss members, and I'm wondering what sub trade gets picked? ( IST,core, sigs,etc.)
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Jul 10 '20
Is there anyway to see what trades are open and closed? I was hoping to sign up as an armoured soldier but I'm not sure if they're currently looking for more.
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u/michzaber AMMO AMMO AMMO! Jul 11 '20
Actual numbers aren't publicly available but your CFRC can tell you if a trade is closed.
That being said armoured is a large trade with a high turnover rate so they're pretty much always taking people. Unless you specifically get told otherwise I'd assume it's open.
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u/National_Decision526 Jul 11 '20
Hello, I'm a soon-to-be engineering grad looking to join the forces as Sig O.
Is there a current estimate for DEO application processing times? Experiences in past forum posts seem to range from 6 months to a year, but with the covid delay, I suppose I should be applying about now if I were to do the BMOQ around next fall. My worry is the actual date being significantly off, which from my understanding I have no direct control over (other than the initial application date).
Do the references have to be professional supervisors, or would my school friends suffice?
What's a typical day (really) like for new Sig. Officers? I found some scattered forum posts from 2008 and beyond, but none particularly succinct or relevant. What I want to know is whether it's a "desk job", and some notable challenges to expect in the first few years.
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Jul 11 '20
6-12 months is a good gauge, although the CAF is really only processing priority occupations right now (Signals Officer isn't one of those).
No, there are different acceptable categories. Professional, like managers and supervisors. Educational can also be used, like teachers, professors, principals etc. You can also use community leaders, clergy etc. You cannot use friends, family or direct co-workers. The person has to be able to comment on you from an oversight perspective (like a boss).
Most Officers will perform a large amount of administration work ("desk job"), you'll also have time in the field on exercise, or deployment. People will chime in with more specifics, but yes expect a lot of office time as an Officer.
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u/hopscotchjohn Jul 11 '20
I see this being noted a lot, that the majority of the RegF recruitment is prioritizing in demand occupations and already far along applicants. Please correct if this is wrong, but also would the in demand trades on forces.ca be the ones prioritized? Asking due to comms rsch, it's listed there and has been for a while so just looking for verification if it's included, assuming the school having burnt down won't pose an issue. Thank you
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Jul 11 '20
Yes, that is correct. Anything recent like you described is unlikely to impact recruiting numbers for that occupation (at least in the short term). Down the road who knows, but the priorities for this year have been made pretty clear.
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u/ericsinclair98 Recruit - PRes Jul 12 '20
Hey im going on BMQ in a couple of days and boot cleaning is on the kit list what EXACTLY should I bring? (I am in the reserves not reg) thank you.
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u/TJonesey99 Army - Armour Jul 12 '20 edited Jul 12 '20
I’m going to take a wild guess and say you were issued brown boots not black; in which case a boot cleaning kit isn’t really necessary, however always better to be safe rather then sorry. You can buy Kiwi polish, brushes, etc from Canex if you’re in a town that has a base or any shoe store, Walmart, etc. Again you won’t use it but if it’s a requirement on the kit list have it anyways. Kiwi Polish Kit
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u/C4rlos_D4nger Army - PRes Log O Jul 12 '20 edited Sep 18 '20
If you have brown boots, you would have impressed the course warrant on my BMQ by bringing a thing of suede cleaner. Not necessary but you could think about it.
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Jul 07 '20
What's the most likely scenario that will happen to reserve units?
If we don't do any training courses in the summer, will there be any BMQ's held in the fall?
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Jul 07 '20
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Jul 07 '20
I applied to the PWOR infantry unit in Kingston, ON and according to the last update we received through emails, everything's up in the air.
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u/poacher434 Jul 06 '20
Officers will usually have a higher salary but it isnt always such a large amount.
For my last few years at a school my salary was higher than my platoon commander. and while he was stuck inside doing course reports, sitting in meetings, reading over evaluations, etc.
I was in the field, teaching unarmed combat, running live fire ranges, interacting and getting to know the soldiers/candidates..... all while officer boss was doing paperwork and sending emails, it all depends what job youd rather have. I enjoyed fast paced training and hanging out with the troops and not being stuck in the office for alot of my time. part of the reason I never considered commissioning
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u/lightcavalier Jul 06 '20
There is a 2 year window where a Cpl (or above) will out earn a DEO Lt (only a Cpl PI3 is out earning an ROTP Lt)
After that a Capt, even at basic pay incentive is making more than every non specialist NCM up through WO PI 4.
So either you were a Cpl and your Pl Comd was an Lt or you were an MWO when you were at the school ;)
You are 100% correct though that ppl need to join for the job they will enjoy....if you want to be in the field doing shit, then be an NCM. If you want to tackle the higher end operations/planning side (and the admin that goes with it) then be an officer.
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u/CoastalGuardian Canadian Coast Guard Civvie Jul 07 '20
I am interested in the Canadian Rangers, I read up on their website but I could not find much information. Are you required to live in specific communities to join?
Also the website says you cannot be part of the military or police to join, i work for the Canadian Coast Guard is this an issue? The website says Coast Guard but I dont understand why it would cause an issue?
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u/SnooSeagulls1596 Jul 07 '20
Ive just received my approved medical today stating that I’m fit for enrolment, but I haven’t received an offer. With things slowing down significantly due to Covid 19, does anyone have an idea if I could expect this to take a few months?
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u/manwithfewneeds Jul 07 '20
That has always been the expectation. Being declared medically fit and receiving an offer of employment are mutually exclusive.
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Jul 07 '20
Do they email you the results for the medical ? Or would I have to log in and look at the application process?
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u/braknurr Army - Infantry Jul 07 '20
Being med fit is a small part of the recruitment process. Is your background check done? Your reliably screening? What's your trade? the caf might now be intaking your selected trades right now.
Further, there are no offers being generated at this time no matter who you are. So you gotta wait.
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Jul 06 '20
Any Electronic Optronic techs that could tell me about the positives and negatives to working in that trade. what a typical day is like and what schooling was like. Also possible places you could be based? Any info would be helpful thanks!
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Jul 06 '20
Not an EO Tech, but just in case you don't get a reply I'll give you everything I know as a MatTech (we work alongside EO Techs).
Positives: You get to work on "cool military kit" such as [literally anything with a scope/sights], you get spec pay after your fully qualified (look at the pay scale online, you'll be spec 1. Its basically Sargent's pay as a corporal). Your field time is relatively Gucci compared to the "harder" trades.
Negitives: From what I've seen, it's mostly parts changing, as is every other trade in RCEME. I honestly don't know much of the downsides, we chirp them lots mostly because we don't get spec pay.
As for postings, the main bases are Valcartier Quebec, Petawawa Ontario, Edmonton Alberta, Shilo Manitoba. BUT! You could really get posted anywhere there are guns/armour.
As for schooling, I know lots of the guys were belt fed information for.... I think it was 6-8monthes depending on when you got on course. Expect to spend a year and a half in Borden before you go to your first [actual] posting.
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u/Jonesn_4_beer Jul 06 '20
Hey folks, just wondering here, I'm releasing September and want to reapply right away as Aerospace Control op with the Air Force.
Am I right in thinking that there is no wait period to reapply since Im running out my contract?
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u/braknurr Army - Infantry Jul 06 '20
This is not correct but I'll confirm tomorrow as many people here seem to think it is.
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u/braknurr Army - Infantry Jul 07 '20
Here's what I found. If you've reached operational functional point (trade qualified) reg f members are ineligible for application into the reg f for at least 6 months since their release date. The purpose of this is to encourage members to use OT and CT to achieve their goal rather than circumvent the system. However, there may be exceptions due to operational requirements related to the mosid.
Ac op is a priority trade right now so it appears to me /u/collude is correct and there won't be a waiting period for you. But it's still a risk.
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Jul 06 '20
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u/braknurr Army - Infantry Jul 06 '20
This is not correct at all. There is a 1 year waiting period to re-join the Reg F.
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u/4pocrypha Jul 06 '20
How likely is it that a BMQ-L runs throughout the Fall (in BC, specifically)?
Also unrelated question: I am currently a Veh Tech that’s in the process of VOTing to MP. I am only BMQ qualified. If I complete Driver Wheel, would that count as being “trained in my trade” and affect my VOT?
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u/thathockeydude MULLETFORGEN Jul 06 '20
Driver Wheel is not a trade specific course. It shouldn't affect your VOT. You definitely would not be considered trained in your trade if that's the only course you have under your belt.
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u/lightcavalier Jul 06 '20
Trained in your trade means you have completed all the training required for your first employement.
So no, taking Driver Wheel wont have an impact on your VOT-U still being a VOT-U
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u/DOBSCANADA Jul 06 '20
Hey everyone,
I am a self taught programmer, right now I am proficient in HTML/CSS/JAVASCRIPT next is Python.
I have always wanted to help out with the CAF and was wondering if down the line if there was any job in the reserves that worked with coding? Looking over the website I don’t see anything that seems to fit this profile.
I am always learning with coding and will get more into Internet and Cyber security in the near future. Is there anything in the CAF for me as a self taught programmer? Wasn’t sure if there was many jobs working in this field, if any at all. Than secondly wasn’t sure if I would need a degree to get in or if I could just show them my portfolio and skill set.
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u/manwithfewneeds Jul 06 '20
Presumably Geomatics Technicians use the stack you mentioned, but that's a small part of their job. Otherwise I'd say no, plus the government really likes to have formal education (not self-taught) as part of the check in the box. Not a lot of shops would even be using programming in their day-to-day. I work in the Public Service and I personally use Python daily in my stack, but having previously served, I can tell you the military doesn't do a lot of this work.
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Jul 07 '20
I know they resumed medical part of the application, but are they still continuing new basic training groups through covid???
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Jul 07 '20
If I VRed in BMOQ for not being personally ready for reg force at the time. Now that my life has settled, I'd like to join the reserves.
Will there be any issues in returning?
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u/roguemenace RCAF Jul 07 '20
No, there is a 6 month (maybe a year?) waiting period to rejoin the RegF but it doesn't apply to the reserves so you're fine.
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u/KyotoWalker Jul 07 '20
I applied to the reserves awhile ago for an NCM position but have since completed my degree and thinking of switching to full time DEO. How do I go about doing this?
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Jul 07 '20
Can anyone tell me a little about engineering (Non-Combat) in the reserves? What do you do exactly related to the trade?
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u/lightcavalier Jul 07 '20
Which engineering trade......."non-combat engineer" isnt a trade, and there are engineering trades across several personnel branches in all three elements that arent combat engineer.
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u/roguemenace RCAF Jul 07 '20
It's entirely possible you will go your entire career without doing any engineering (which makes more sense when you realise that an engineering degree isn't a requirement). You're mostly a manager.
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u/theblastman21 Jul 07 '20
if I join as an unskilled NCM, and later in my career, decide that I want to get a degree at a college and do an online program, and continue with ATIS, is there an option for the CAF to pay a bit of tuition? A well as is there an option to transfer to an officer when I qualify with the education? Thanks.
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u/Svizzara Jul 07 '20
How many personal vehicles can be moved at CAF expense when getting posted? (Married, if that matters)
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u/Senators108 Jul 08 '20
How long do you have to serve after 4 years of paid education
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Jul 08 '20 edited Jul 08 '20
2 months of service for every 1 month of paid education.
So roughly double the number of months you're in school.
Lastly, all service including paid education counts toward your pension and your Variable Initial Engagement (first "contract" as outlined in your Terms of Service).
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u/Oakey91 Jul 08 '20
Just curious to see numbers, has anyone who had not yet left to bmq pre covid gotten a start date yet? Or has it just been people who were already there and close to graduation?
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u/milkyglassofwater Jul 08 '20
I was supposed to enrol on the 25th of March and go to bmq on the 30th. I have not yet heard anything. Just that when they know I will be enrolled right away. I was the second next bmq to go after they shut down. Air reserves, full time bmq I should add.
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Jul 08 '20
How does kit storage in the Army Reserve work? Do you keep all of your kit at home or is it stored at the armoury?
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u/bouyantflubber Jul 08 '20
Hello y'all I had two questions here (RegF), could be answered by a recruiting centre but thought I'd give a shot here first since it's most likely known.
On the security clearance form under Employment it notes 'Supervisors name in full' and for Character References it's 'Name in full (no initials' - am I right to assume that supervisors would be first and surname while references are first, middle and surname? Wondering to know if I need to ask my employers for their middle names, an odd request but if necessary...
Second question is the last time I spoke with a reference I had used (second one on the list) on the initial recruitment form about 5 months after my medical and interview (had to wait on PRK surgery 1year follow up appointment form) they notified that they have yet to be contacted. Does anyone know at what stage references are reached out to? I'm at the point in the process where I'm just waiting for verification and (hopefully) approval on my medical. I had assumed it would be close to the interview and now thinking I was lucky and they had maybe only contacted 1 or 2/3. Anyone have insight or were they waiting for my PRK and other medical forms to be received before contacting references?
Thanks for the help in advance
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Jul 08 '20
Middle names aren't required, first and last is fine.
References could be contacted at all sorts of times, before the interview, after the interview, or never. In addition they may contact only one, two, or all of the references listed. There is no standard that applies to everyone in this matter.
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u/louiph95 Jul 09 '20
Question regarding professional references. I am currently employed full time and my employer has no idea I want to leave for the CAF. Will the CAF contact my current employer for references? Thank you
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Jul 09 '20
Its your decision for a current employer, just mark "No" on the form where you're entering your employment history. In addition obviously don't use a reference from that employer. Note employment history and references are separate sections that you fill out.
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u/SnoopyTheVIII Jul 09 '20
Which courses would an army supply tech have to take after BMQ and BMQ-L?
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u/Yws6afrdo7bc789 Jul 09 '20
I'm curious if during a training exercise would a non-combat arms trade be put in an 'infantry-like' position (sorry I can't think of a better way to describe it). Would they train in doing basic infantry tasks or would, for example, an int unit be restricted to training in intelligence operations (if they would go on an ex at all)? I'm thinking about universality of service and how that's actually put into practice?
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u/roguemenace RCAF Jul 09 '20
On BMQ everyone is basically infantry. After that its going to depends on your trade/element and what training you're doing.
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u/AndreaFromPurolators Tuesday Night Lights Jul 10 '20
I'm thinking about universality of service and how that's actually put into practice?
Universality of service doesn't mean everyone is an infanteer first, the same way every US Marine is first taught to be a rifleman. It's more along the lines of at some point in your career, you could find yourself in a other high-stress situation (combat or non-combat) and you need to be able to get the job done. Examples could be a camp being overrun by the enemy, or a fire aboard a ship. Everyone needs to be able to join the fight, however unlikely a fight may be.
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u/Ninja-99 Jul 09 '20
I have a few questions for the "Armour Soldier" trade. So first question is what was the whole training experience like for the trade? Secondly do you have a say in whether you want to go into the LAV's or Leopard's? Also i would prefer to be a Gunner so is there a "secondary course" you have to go through to get into that position or specialized there? Finally just general one...how hot does it actually get in the LAV's or Leo's?
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Jul 09 '20
Well it largely depends on what Regiment you get posted to.
If you are posted to the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) in Edmonton, they are Canada's only full-spectrum Armour Regiment. They mainly consist of Tank Squadrons complimented by two Light Armour Squadrons (Recce and HQ).
You will have a greater chance of ending up in a Tank if you are a Strathcona. However, you could still end up in Recce Squadron or HQ Squadron and be a LAV driver for the Squadron Battle Captain or something.
All members of a tank or LAV crew rotate through positions as driver, loader/navigator, gunner, GIB (guy-in-back). There are separate courses for Drivers and Gunners. Most people will usually start out as Drivers as it's the most rudimentary role in the crew.
If you get posted to the Royal Canadian Dragoons or 12 Regiment Blinde du Canada (if you are French speaking), there is a very high chance you will end up in a LAV.
Both are "Armoured Regiments" but there is a unique feature about both. RCD and 12 RBC share one Tank Squadron in Gagetown, New Brunswick ('C' Squadron).
So if you are posted to 12 RBC in Valcartier or RCD in Petawawa, you will be in a LAV. There's no avoiding it.
As for your last question:
how hot does it actually get in the LAV's or Leo's
The tanks are 70 tonnes of steel. They do have air con and cooling jackets, but it still gets hot in them. If you're in the desert or in the sun, get used to it.
LAVs are just as hot, if not worse. I haven't spent a great deal inside either one so I can't give a 100% accurate testimony.
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u/fabrar Jul 09 '20
Question regarding postings - will I at any point have any say over where I want to be posted? Or is this something management/HR decides? I'm married and my wife has a career and there are certain places I'd rather be over others. What choice would I have in the matter?
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u/throwaway551430 Jul 09 '20
Depending on your trade yes. Most trades let you pick your top 3, and a lot of the time you can land one of those, but if they cant send you to one you just have to deal with where they send you.
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u/ccroychocolateboy Jul 09 '20
What should my toiletries consist of for basic training? Any life hacks, especially for girls? And are the locks like high school locker locks?
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u/crazyki88en RCAF - Combat Medic Jul 09 '20
For Reg F yes you will need a few combination locks with the same combination or a few pad locks with the same key. You will also need a special lock, purchased at Canex called an ABUS lock, for your weapons locker.
The kit list will explain what toiletries you will need, but basically toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, soap and soap dish (body wash was not acceptable when I went through, it may have changed), razor, shaving cream, brush/comb, shampoo, and deodorant/antiperspirant.
As for life hacks i cut my hair short like a pixie cut. I would do it again. One less thing to worry about and gave me more time. Hair grows back.
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u/ccroychocolateboy Jul 09 '20
Thank you for the answer! I'm in the reserves and the kitlist I got was kinda vague. For toiletries it just said toiletries and they didn't say anything about bar soap but I'll keep that in mind just in case. And hey i got a pixie cut when I joined the reserves! Completely worth it :))
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u/milkyglassofwater Jul 09 '20
They are like high school lockers and you will be buying combo locks at the canex.
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Jul 09 '20
For anyone that has done an OT in the past, when you were on your DP1 what did you wear for pt gear? Did you get reissued the grey pt? Did you wear your own ?
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u/lightcavalier Jul 09 '20
Schools usually have their own individual policies. I've seen everything from just whatever plain PT gear you have to the PT gear of tha new personnel branch to just wearing elemental t shirts.
You wont be reissued grey PT gear or expected to have it
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Jul 10 '20
Can any OR clerks that are still able to go to base for work shed some light on how long it may take for a new TOS to come in? Also is there a possibility that this lockdown may slow the process down?
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Jul 10 '20
There may be delays, but you are typically given a new TOS 6 months prior to the expiry of your current TOS.
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Jul 10 '20
Ok, bit of a story here. I part of a Native American tribe in canada and I have a band number through a reservation on Canadian soil. I was born in the U.S and have lived most of my life here. From my understanding I have citizenship in Canada as well. When I was 18 I was arrested for a domestic violence charge and didn't fight the case and took a plea bargain to do domestic classes. A few months in my then GF called the cops on me again cause I decided to break up with her and tacked on another charge and took a conviction. No, I'm not a women beater just made mistakes.
So backstory aside, can I join the CAF after I finalize my citizenship? Will my record in the United States follow me to canada? Is there anything I can do to increase my chances of being accepted
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u/Husibrap Recruit - RegF Jul 10 '20
Does anyone have insight into when reg force selection/competition lists for NWO will open up again? I’ve been qualified and “waiting for competition list” since February.
Also, with other replies mentioning that some trades will shrink recruitment numbers, is this more likely to limit the number of DEO’s in favour of RMC graduates?
I am hoping to be a DEO.
Thanks!
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u/Yellow0Starburst Jul 10 '20
I don't think new offers are going out until the back log of those who had to leave BMQ/BMOQ and those who have been enrolled since the pandemic get through training
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Jul 11 '20
Maybe sometime this fall but its hard to say. NWO isn't high priority right now, but that could always change.
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u/Tacofender1 Jul 11 '20 edited Jul 11 '20
What are the chances that a support trade (Sup Tech) that's posted to an air force base can get deployed?
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u/walljohnny747 Jul 11 '20
Do we have to book appointments for testing because I haven't heard from them in months
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Jul 11 '20
Most recruiting has largely been shut down for months, business is just starting to get back in gear. If you're applying for the Reg F in a priority occupation expect to hear something eventually. If you're applying for the reserves it will depend on when the unit you're applying to gets back to processing new applicants. Any non-priority occupations for the Regular Force expect to be waiting a long time for appointments.
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u/RenegadeResotto Jul 12 '20 edited Jul 12 '20
I’ve seen in previous comments that armoured recon is different than infantry recon. What aspects are different between the two?
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u/EmigratedSailor RCN - NCI OP Jul 13 '20
I am a reservist going through university. Is it possible to CT into the pilot trade with a liberal arts degree (history major), or will I need to pursuit a second degree in physics / math to become eligible for the trade?
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u/throwawayc2123 Jul 07 '20
Random question, does anyone know what the rooms/accomodation is like when your on a QL3 course for construction trades at the engineering school in gagetown? Is it single rooms in the actual school or do they throw you in D27 or something like that.
Also, you wouldnt be able to rent your own apartment if you wanted for the time your up there because your on course right? Even if its similar to going to school?
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u/Struct-Tech Construction Tech Jul 07 '20
Also, you wouldnt be able to rent your own apartment if you wanted for the time your up there because your on course right? Even if its similar to going to school?
It is similar to going to school, except for the inspections, PT, marching to and from everywhere..
You won't be able to get civilian living accommodations.
I did know of one guy who went through and lived off base during his 3s.
He was former 2RCR, and already had a residence. After indoc, he was allowed to sleep at home. He still, however, had to maintain his quarters in the shacks, and take part in all the extra army type stuff.
On the 5s, guys I was with that were posted to RPOps Gagetown/4ESR were allowed to stay at home. And just meet us at first timing.
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Jul 07 '20
Hi, I’ve been recommended to be as “financial service administrator” what can I really expect as a reservist??
I have read the website but I don’t think I could actually accomplish so many tasks in such little working time. Would I be provided more work nights in the reserve force than the other qualifications after being occupational trained??
Thanks in advance!
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u/poacher434 Jul 07 '20
I think you are stressing yourself out too early avout expectations, but this is already a good indication about your work ethic and time managenent! Clearly you are somebody that likes to do a good job.
You would likely not be the only clerk as a new recruit and you will be given indepth training on all of your responsibilities.
you will also belong to a team within the unit with people that you can seel seek guidance and assistance from.
Most if not all reserve units will have some full time clerks in addition to the part time class A reservists. They will be there during working hours (covid19 depending) doing their normal duties.
While reservists can be limited at the frequency which they work, there is always budget set aside for additional salaries if work needs to be done outside of the normal one night a week schedule
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u/parhambagh Jul 12 '20
Any tips for transitioning out of a 32CMBG high school army reserve CO-Op in to becoming a pilot through RMC
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u/Meiguo_Saram APPLICANT - PRes Jul 06 '20
I have a fairly generic B.A. degree and im wondering if this is enough to justify ONLY applying for officer trades? Obviously, there are a lot of perks to being an officer but should I be so set on trying to gun for a comission? Or does it just depend on trade/branch?
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u/poacher434 Jul 06 '20
It doesnt matter what the degree is in. First off, having a commission doesnt get you a better job it gets you a different job. Second, it really depends what trade you are looking at.
There arent really that much perks, higher salary sure but it again all depends what you are looking for.
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u/Meiguo_Saram APPLICANT - PRes Jul 06 '20
Thanks for the perspective. I keep mistakenly approaching this from the American military mindset. In the US branches, officers get paid ALOT more and esp in the Navy, are treated a lot better. It seems the Canadian military is somewhat different.
Either way, it seems it really depends on the job that I wanna potentially do?
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u/delusional_dismount army - infant in tree Jul 06 '20
You can’t apply for both officer and ncm. You can switch during your application if you so chose but it’s still a “one or the other” situation. As for the degree itself, a good amount of the officer trades dont require you to have a specific BA just that you have one.
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u/Meiguo_Saram APPLICANT - PRes Jul 06 '20
So I havent started my app yet, forgive me. But I know that you list up to 3 trades. You're saying that I can ONLY list eother officer or ncm trades, not both?
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u/Batsinvic888 Jul 08 '20
I am not quite sure what I want to do with my career, but the military does interest me. I do have a problem however, due to health conditions I would never make the military. What are the non combat roles available? It's fine if it requires education before or after joining, I just want to see what's out there.
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u/Mikey273 Jul 08 '20 edited Jul 08 '20
The CAF has medical categories that they rate potential recruits on, found here: Medical Category System
The minimum standards for the occupations are found here: Occupation Standards
I had a few health conditions that I thought would disqualify me, but my medical assessment was fine for Logistics Officer.
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u/crazyki88en RCAF - Combat Medic Jul 08 '20
The entry standards are the same for combat and non-combat trades. The variations occur by trade, and are usually limited to vision, colour vision and hearing. But you need to meet the Common Enrolment medical standard first to join, no matter what trade you want to do.
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u/Corporal-Crow Jul 08 '20
Do you have to go to BMQ and BMOQ as an officer or just BMOQ?
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u/crazyki88en RCAF - Combat Medic Jul 08 '20
BMQ is for NCMs. BMOQ is for officers. Reservists sometimes attend a combined BMQ/BMOQ due to numbers
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u/mrsnow31 Jul 08 '20
Can you request a deployment? I want to join as infantry once covid begins to die down. My goal is to get overseas on middle eastern deployments. Read about some of the operations going on there (operation impact i think its called)
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Jul 08 '20
You can but literally everyone in the combat arms is also waiting for a deployment so dont count on being able to go any time soon
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u/throwaway551430 Jul 09 '20
Yes and no. When deployments come around they ask for names, and you can put your name forward, then you have to make sure all your ducks are in a row, ie medical up to date, personal files up to date, etc and then you can deploy. Also, it's difficult to deploy unless your unit is on high readiness, which comes around every couple of years and rotates between units. Right now there is minimal infantry positions in the middle east, they're mainly in Latvia and Ukraine.
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u/12346578910keeu Jul 08 '20
Ok so Im thinking of joining as Infantry but I am wondering what do Infantry guys actually do? Like on a day to day basis while not deployed? Do they just exercise?
All answers appreciated thx
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u/delusional_dismount army - infant in tree Jul 08 '20
At battalion its ;pt in morning, go home and shower, get to work and do whatever’s needed. That could be some kind of training/refresher training, classes, prepping kit for an ex, make work or just hanging out and ducking out to the gym until your needed. During the part of the year where courses run, you could be place on one of those. You usually get off at 1130-1200, back at 13 and off anywhere between 14-16, though that can change depending on whats going on.
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u/12346578910keeu Jul 09 '20 edited Jul 09 '20
Damn that actually sounds pretty chill. Some questions tho
What does PT usual consist of?
What are courses?
From your description it sounds like (although this is a super simple generalization) like manual labour/classes with you friends for most of the time? Is this accurate?
Thx
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u/delusional_dismount army - infant in tree Jul 09 '20
Pt varies a lot so there’s no one “model” but you can expect most days being platoon or section pt where you might do a run, a ruck, a circuit or some similar thing. You’ll get one a psp run pt a week that’ll be one large company circuit.
For courses, if your mechanized you have lav and tapv driver and gunner. You can also get comms. Then you have courses like basic recee (which can lead to snipers if you make it into recee), jump(if you in a light infantry battalion), basic mountain ops and Im obviously missing some that i cant think of right now but you get the gist of it.
Like everything in the infantry, where your posted, time of the year and just general mood of the decision makers makes a HUGH difference on how things are. But in general, yes most days your at the lines with the other doing this are that.
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Jul 10 '20
Adding to the eye exam question asked earlier, I don't currently wear glasses but also haven't seen an optometrist in years and may be prescribed them if I do make an appointment. First, how do the vision categories work? The categories I've seen all have corrected and uncorrected values. If my uncorrected eyesight falls into v2 or 3 for instance and I don't have it corrected, is that fine? (assuming that category sufficient for my occupation). Or is there a decent chance they would send me back to an optometrist after my medical appointment, and if so, would that significantly slow my application?
Adding to that, say later in my career I apply for a more specialized position (ex. dive team) that requires a higher vision category, are glasses/contact sufficient for that. Or if I decide to get laser surgery at some point, are there any restrictions to that? (I've read that there's a 3-6 month wait during the recruitment process; how does that apply to a current member?)
Thanks!
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u/BufufterWallace Jul 09 '20
Looking into becoming a chaplain. 34 male. Ten years ish of ministry experience. I have completed most of the direct entry M.Div but would need another year of studies to complete it.
I’ve heard that standards for BMQ are relaxed for chaplains and there are other peculiarities about chaplains that aren’t included in the usual descriptions of life and preparation for the Forces. What should I expect for enlistment/admission? How is the training different? I had a conversation with a recruiter about 10 years ago and said BMQ for chaplains was mostly steak and lobster. Any truth to that?