SSD2 and the future of the E-6 promotion board.

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 May 2014 13:46:25 -0400

The latest update is: If you don't complete SSD2 you cant be recommended to attend an E-6 Board...My question is; do you think this will change since there is a massive back log of NCO's that need to complete SSD2?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 31 at 2014 3:09 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 31 May 2014 15:09:19 -0400

Reference? The latest ALARACT that I read dealing with SSD-2 stated that those SSG's who hadn't completed SSD-2 weren't eligible for promotion to SFC (unless grandfathered in with resident course requirements before june 1st 2014) and those that were already eligible for promotion to SFC but hadn't completed it by sometime later this year would be removed from the list.

Response by 1SG Chris Brown made Jun 14 at 2014 12:44 PM

1SG Chris Brown — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 12:44:40 -0400

What reference are you using for this information? SSD2 does not have a backlog; it is not even in effect yet and doesn’t start until 1 OCT 14 (next Fiscal Year). SSD2 will replace ALC Common Core which was never a requirement to have completed prior to attending the SSG promotion board. As of next FY, in order to be considered an ALC Grad, you will have to complete SSD2 and your MOS-specific resident phase of ALC. These must be completed prior to your SFC selection board, so you actually have quite a bit of time. If you aren’t working on SSD2 the moment you pin SGT (starting next FY), then you are allowing yourself to fall behind. There should never be any kind of “massive back log” because SSD is a self-paced program. You’re signed up automatically at different stages of your career and then take it at your own speed until you have completed all the modules. This is better than the current ALC Common Core which did have a backlog of NCOs because you were on a specific timeline in a given course and had to complete on time. SSD2 should take away a lot of that problem, assuming there’s even any residual delays in ALC CC left today.

So, in overall answer to your question: No, there will be no change because one is not necessary. You will not need SSD2 prior to attending the SSG promotion board that I am aware of. Even if they do change the standard to require SSD2 prior to your SSG board appearance, I don’t see it as an issue except for those NCOs who drag their feet on completing this self-study module.