What Happens After Navy Basic Training?
After completing Navy Basic Training, also known as "boot camp," recruits are one step closer to becoming sailors. But what happens next? In this article, we’ll explore the various steps and processes that follow basic training, including advanced training, job specialization, and career advancement.
Job Assignment and Rating
Immediately after basic training, recruits receive their Job Assignment and Rating. This is a critical step in the Navy’s personnel management process, as it determines the sailor’s role and responsibilities within the fleet. Ratings are specialized jobs within the Navy, such as Electrician’s Mate (EM), Aviation Structural Mechanic (ASM), or Sonar Technician (STG).
| Ratings | Job Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Aviation Ordnanceman (AO) | Responsible for handling and storing ordnance on aircraft carriers |
| Boatswain’s Mate (BM) | Oversees deck operations, including ship maintenance and operations |
| Culinary Specialist (CS) | Responsible for food preparation and management on ships and shore |
Advanced Training and "A" School
Following job assignment, sailors attend Advanced Training at a specific "A" School. This training lasts several weeks to several months and provides specialized knowledge and skills for their rating. A School training is crucial for preparing sailors for their duties on board ships, aircraft carriers, or at shore-based facilities.
Examples of Advanced Training
- Electrician’s Mate (EM) "A" School: Learns about electrical systems, circuitry, and wiring on ships and submarines
- Aviation Structural Mechanic (ASM) "A" School: Trains on aircraft maintenance, repair, and replacement of aircraft structures
- Sonar Technician (STG) "A" School: Studies advanced sonar systems, navigation, and communication technologies
Job Specialization
After completing Advanced Training, sailors can choose to specialize in a specific Job Specialty within their rating. This allows them to develop additional skills and expertise, increasing their value to the Navy and career opportunities.
| Job Specialty | Examples |
|---|---|
| Airborne Electronics Attack | Sonar Technician (STG) specialized in airborne electronics attack systems |
| Submarine Operations | Boatswain’s Mate (BM) specialized in submarine operations and maintenance |
Shipboard Duty and Deployment
Once sailors complete Advanced Training and job specialization, they are assigned to a ship or shore-based facility. They will spend several months to several years serving on board, completing various duties and missions.
Types of Shipboard Duty
- Conventional Surface Ships: Destroyers, cruisers, and amphibious assault ships
- Aircraft Carriers: Large warships with flight decks for aircraft operations
- Submarines: Stealthy underwater vessels for surveillance and attack missions
- Amphibious Ships: Vessels designed for amphibious assaults and transportation
Shore-Based Duty and Support
Not all sailors are assigned to shipboard duty. Some may be assigned to Shore-Based Duty at bases, stations, or other facilities. Shore-based sailors may work in administrative roles, maintenance, or support functions.
Types of Shore-Based Duty
- Administrative Support: Managing personnel, finances, and logistics
- Maintenance and Repair: Repairing and maintaining equipment, buildings, and facilities
- Medical Support: Providing medical care and treatment to sailors and their families
- Intelligence Support: Collecting, analyzing, and disseminating intelligence information
Career Advancement and Promotion
Sailors can advance in their careers through a combination of education, training, and experience. Promotion to higher paygrades and rates requires demonstrated expertise, leadership, and a commitment to the Navy’s core values.
| Paygrades and Rates | Career Advancement |
|---|---|
| Petty Officer 3rd Class (PO3) | Enlisted sailor with basic training and rating |
| Petty Officer 2nd Class (PO2) | Senior enlisted sailor with advanced training and leadership skills |
| Petty Officer 1st Class (PO1) | Master chief petty officer or senior leader with extensive experience |
In conclusion, what happens after Navy Basic Training is a series of important steps that prepare sailors for their roles and responsibilities in the fleet. From job assignment and rating to advanced training, job specialization, and shipboard duty, sailors are equipped with the skills and knowledge to excel in their careers.
