Could On the Job Training (OJT) be a viable training option?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 12:18:32 -0500

The reclassification training for several MOS's has always been more formality than necessity. The 42A10 reclass teaches how reference regs and use systems that do not affect the guard. Many of the admin and support MOS' follow this model as well. What is preventing the resurgence of OJT in this frugal DOD era; while more and leadership requirements are shifted to DL?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 13 at 2015 2:11 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 14:11:25 -0500

I have wondered this myself. I have been told that "back in the day" you could test out of certain schools. If a service member has a CDL, why should he go to a re-class school to become an 88M? I'm not an 88M and haven't been one, so I can't say for certain what they may teach that couldn't be picked up quickly in a trans Co. I also just saw an Infantry soldier reclass to 12b. I really don't think that a 12b reclass school is going to teach an infantry man anything he couldn't pick up really quick in the company.

The problem with this though would be implementation. If you send an infantry soldier to a line engineer company, he'll get brought up to speed really quickly (And probably do a bit of teaching of his own). If you send someone who doesn't have a combat MOS, it may take longer. But, if you sent either of these soldiers to a 12b slot in HHC there may be no one there to give them OJT. I think that the Army is avoiding having to decide when to reclass by making everybody reclass, whether they would actually need it or not.

Just a couple quick thoughts off the top of my head...

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Jan 13 at 2015 3:21 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 15:21:18 -0500

I would say standards. School houses provide a uniform standard base line which OJT supplements.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made Jan 13 at 2015 3:50 PM

CMSgt James Nolan — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 15:50:50 -0500

In some career fields, I could see a person entering the field with far more experience than the schoolhouse could impart (i.e. a master electrician, a computer expert), but the schoolhouse imparts service knowledge that can not be replicated.

OJT is a vital part of the continuation of education, but I would think that it would remain a supplement to formal training (with a few exceptions). In many cases (specifically Guard/Reserves) Active Duty folks transition into units, and receive significant OJT, which then often sets them far apart from the "basic" students. In some cases, schools are waived for those folks, as attending a basic school could be a waste, but it usually involves a waiver package being submitted to the COC on high for approval. Certainly a case by case basis, with certificates to back up the waiver.