What happens after navy a school?

What Happens After Navy "A" School?

The Navy’s "A" School, also known as the Navy’s job-specific training, is the final step in the process of becoming a qualified enlisted sailor. After completing "A" School, Sailors are considered fully trained and qualified in their Rating (job). But what happens next? In this article, we’ll explore the various options and opportunities that await Sailors after completing Navy "A" School.

Immediate Assignment

After completing "A" School, Sailors will typically receive their first shore-based assignment, often at a Naval Air Station or a Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS). This initial assignment is usually a two-year tour, during which they will gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.

Job Assignments and Career Advancement

Rating is a significant factor in determining job assignments and career advancement opportunities. Sailors can expect to be assigned to a Primary Duty Station based on their Rating and job requirements. Here are some common job assignments and career advancement opportunities:

• Aviation Maintenance: Avionics, electrical, and mechanical maintenance specialists may be assigned to various fleet squadrons, shore-based maintenance facilities, or specialized units like the Naval Air Warfare Center.
• Aviation Electronics: Sailors in this rating may be assigned to fleet squadrons, shore-based units, or specialized units like the Naval Air Warfare Center.
• Aviation Mechanics: Sailors in this rating may be assigned to fleet squadrons, shore-based units, or specialized units like the Naval Air Warfare Center.
• Aviation Operations: Sailors in this rating may be assigned to fleet squadrons, shore-based units, or specialized units like the Naval Air Warfare Center.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Sailors can advance their careers through various routes, including:

• Promotion to Petty Officer: Sailors can advance to Petty Officer (E-4 to E-6) by completing the required time in service, completing various courses, and demonstrating leadership potential.
• Specialist and Technical Training: Sailors can attend specialized schools, such as the Navy’s Aviation Machinist’s Mate ‘A’ School, Aviation Electronics Technician ‘A’ School, and Aviation Mechanic ‘A’ School to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Aviation Maintenance Officer: Experienced Sailors can apply to become Aviation Maintenance Officers, overseeing maintenance operations and developing future maintenance procedures.
• Aviation Electronics Officer: Experienced Sailors can apply to become Aviation Electronics Officers, responsible for managing the electronic systems of naval aircraft.

Sea Duty vs. Shore Duty

Sailors can expect to alternate between sea duty and shore duty throughout their career. Sea duty typically lasts 2-3 years, while shore duty is usually 2-5 years. This rotation helps Sailors gain a broader range of experiences and stay connected with their peers and families.

Volunteer Opportunities

Sailors can also take advantage of various volunteer opportunities, including:

• Deployment with a Fleet Squadron: Sailors can volunteer for deployment with a fleet squadron, gaining valuable experience and earning additional sea time.
• Participation in Training Exercises: Sailors can participate in training exercises and drills, honing their skills and preparing for future deployments.
• Specialized Training: Sailors can attend specialized training schools, such as the Navy’s Aviation Warfighting Development Squadron (NWDS), which focuses on developing the next generation of naval aviators.

Conclusion

In conclusion, after completing Navy "A" School, Sailors can expect to receive their first shore-based assignment, gain hands-on experience, and develop their skills. They can then advance their careers through promotion, specialized training, and officer opportunities. With alternating sea and shore duty, Sailors can gain a broader range of experiences and stay connected with their peers and families. Additionally, volunteer opportunities provide Sailors with the chance to hone their skills, earn additional sea time, and develop their leadership potential.

Table: Navy "A" School Ratings and Assignments

Bullets List: Career Advancement Opportunities

• Promotion to Petty Officer (E-4 to E-6)
• Specialist and Technical Training
• Aviation Maintenance Officer
• Aviation Electronics Officer
• Deployment with a Fleet Squadron
• Participation in Training Exercises
• Specialized Training