On the (slow) path to becoming an AES Op

[MarkN]

Hi All,

Anyone can feel free to add their opinion regarding my "trek".

I have decided to submit my application to the CF for AES Op - It seems to be the best choice for my interests.

1st: AES OP (No Positions Open) (Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator) (I did NCIOP (as an NE TECH) and I am a private plot, so I am familiar with the flight environment - flying and radio communications)

2nd: AC OP (No Positions Open) (Aerospace Control Operator) (Again, a pilot - familiar with the flight environment and experience with Radar as NCIOP and radio communications)

3rd: LCIS (100 positions open) (Land communication Systems Technician) (I have 7 years working in a computer network environment and I have my Amateur Radio License - General Level which required electronics and radio propagation theory - my only concern is the 10 week additional Soldier Qualification course - I can pass the BMQ fitness stuff, but at 48, this may be a bit too much and I wouldn't want to set myself up for failure)

4th: NE TECH (No Positions Open) (Naval Electronics Technician - Radar) (I did 3 years into my NE TECH Tactical as an NCIOP back in 1987-1990)

So... If you read through the bits above you will notice that I am 48 years old and I want to make the right choice and make it through.

In talking with the recruiters in North Bay, I discovered that the trade I want is closed until April, 2010. (All but 11 trades are closed)

I recall when I was 18 I passed all the ROTP entrance exams, but at the time I was too "light" by 17 lbs, so it fell through - I took the equivalent to the current entrance aptitude test when I enrolled in 1987 and found I was open to "all" trades at the time - so I hope that given my past test scores and experience, that I am suitable for AES Op.

It looks like the best choice out there for so many reasons.

Any thoughts?

Mark

[Klinkaroo]

Hi,

One question. What do you WANT to do? I have been waiting since last april to get in, needed a medical and a couple other things done and now the trade is closed. Don't rush it too much though, I understand that at 48 you might want to try taking the fast route in, but April is only 63 days away and that's normally when the trades reopen with all their new positions.

[fiftycal]

The first two choices seem to be keeping in the same theme but I'm wondering what motivated you to select LCIS and NE Tech? They're quite a world away from Air Ops.

[MarkN]

I want Air - I love aircraft and flying so the first two are for that reason.
When you are on the ground wishing you were up there, you know that is your true desire.

Aerospace Control OP is only as a backup to AES OP

LCIS is a filling in the blank third choice, as I wanted ATIS as well, but... The scary part is that there are 100 openings in LCIS.

NE TECH was only on the list as I was originally on that track when I was in before. - I really don't want to go there.

One of the recruiters stated that he had an email that stated that AES Op may only be open this April to "skilled" DE - so who knows.

For me it seems like my choices are like Schrodinger's Cat - The moment I look at and consider a trade, it closes.

We shall see - I will wait until April and use this time to increase my physical level.

[Brandon Hopkins]

Mark,

You're just applying at the wrong time. It's end of season for the fiscal year and the targets for certain trades have been met. Wait until April and base your decision then. Try and stick out for AESOP though, it's pretty good so far even as an OJT.

Cheers,

Brandon

[SteveK]

...if you want Air, do yourself a favor and apply for nothing but air. Trust me about that. I wear a blue uniform, but as a purple trade.
When I see the guys flying overhead everyday and I'm plowing parking lots on the base for 12 straight hours( kill me please,lol ), I know that flying is my true desire! Don't waste your time on anything else.
Good luck
Steve

[Aviatrix]

After a visit to CFRC Vancouver regarding this trade I was informed that civvie applicants like yourself with applicable experience (pilot, tech background) will probably get called in first. You're ahead of the game there.

I'm in a similar boat to you, in that I'm really rather keen to get started and have been back and forth with CFRC for awhile now, about 2 years. I have a pilot application that has been stalled indefinitely. I'm a pilot (CPL) and a GIS technologist, I passed CAPPS and the medicals for aircrew but they were none too impressed with my grades (low eighties) from my tech diploma. It's a shame, but looking at the AES-Op trade, I think it's worth the wait and headaches.

The positions open April 21, so sit tight! I'm sure you'll get a call. If it's what you want, stick with it. You obviously like to fly so don't apply for something that has you stuck five decks down in a dark, low ceiling naval tech room doing something you already don't sound too enthusiastic about.

As for you being 48, if you want it, you'll push yourself a lot harder. It is in someways an advantage I hear from friends whom have had older folks on their BMQ/BOTCs ect, you just know yourself so much better and have some life experience and perspective on your side. That being said, preparation is key!

Good luck. Perhaps we'll end up on course together.

[gregv]

I'm 50 ad I've waited for a year finally got a call it's open so just waiting for an interveiw. I've also, had previous military in the Navy with 13 years.
Can't wait to restart my career in the military.