What Happens After AIT in the National Guard?
After completing Advanced Individual Training (AIT) in the National Guard, soldiers are prepared to join their respective units and start their military careers. However, the journey does not end there. There are several steps that a National Guard soldier needs to take after AIT to ensure a successful and rewarding career. In this article, we will explore what happens after AIT in the National Guard.
Assignments and Units
Immediately after AIT, National Guard soldiers are assigned to their respective units. This assignment is typically determined by the soldier’s Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). Soldiers may be assigned to units such as infantry, armor, artillery, or support units like supply, maintenance, or communications.
| Unit Assignment | Description |
|---|---|
| Line units | Combat units such as infantry, armor, artillery, and cavalry |
| Support units | Non-combat units such as logistics, maintenance, and administrative units |
| Reserve Component (RC) | Army Reserve or Army National Guard units |
Post-Training Orientation
New soldiers will typically attend a Post-Training Orientation (PTO) after completing AIT. This briefing is designed to inform them about their new unit, unit responsibilities, and other important information. At PTO, soldiers will:
- Meet their unit’s commanding officer and senior non-commissioned officers (NCOs)
- Receive information about unit organization and structure
- Review their job description and duties
- Learn about unit policies and procedures
- Meet with their fellow new soldiers
Integration with Unit
After PTO, soldiers will start to integrate with their new unit. This may include attending unit training exercises, attending meetings with senior leadership, and participating in ceremonies and events. The goal is to acclimate new soldiers to their new unit and help them understand their role within the larger organization.
Monthly Unit Training Assembly (UTA) Meetings
National Guard units typically hold monthly Unit Training Assembly (UTA) meetings. During UTA, soldiers will review unit operations, conduct unit training, and attend unit ceremonies. UTA is an important part of maintaining unit readiness and preparing for deployment.
Deployment Preparation
National Guard soldiers who are assigned to units with deployment-ready capabilities will be required to participate in deployment training. This training will prepare soldiers for the realities of combat and help them understand their role in supporting their unit’s mission. Deployment preparation includes training in areas such as combat lifesaving, land navigation, and marksmanship.
Annual Training
Each year, National Guard soldiers are required to participate in annual training. Annual training is a critical part of maintaining unit readiness and allows soldiers to conduct military skills training. During annual training, soldiers may conduct field exercises, receive refresher training on essential skills, and participate in community service projects.
Continuing Education and Development
The National Guard values continuous learning and development. Soldiers are encouraged to pursue continuing education opportunities such as Officer Basic Course (OBC), Advanced Leaders Course (ALC), and Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC). These courses are designed to help soldiers improve their leadership skills, acquire new skills, and increase their knowledge of military procedures.
Career Advancement Opportunities
National Guard soldiers have numerous career advancement opportunities. These opportunities are available through promotion to higher ranks, special skill qualification, and career changes. Soldiers can also explore career advancement opportunities outside the military, such as veterans’ preference programs, transferable skills, and employer partnerships.
Conclusion
In conclusion, after completing AIT in the National Guard, soldiers can look forward to a challenging and rewarding career. As they integrate with their unit, participate in unit training, and pursue continuing education and development opportunities, soldiers will be well-prepared to support their unit’s mission and achieve their full potential. By following the steps outlined in this article, National Guard soldiers can set themselves up for success and make a valuable contribution to their unit and the military as a whole.
Additional Resources:
- National Guard Personnel Operations Manual
- National Guard Training and Education Board
- Army National Guard Careers
- Army National Guard Training and Operations Directorate
