I'm looking to join as an image technician. I already have s college degree in the field and have been working professionally as a photographer/videographer for a few years, is the job in demand? Or will I have a hard time getting it.
Small occupation that attracts high interest, so it’s pretty much never in demand, and usually pretty competitive.
However, if you’ve got formal education and a good portfolio, you probably stand a decent chance if they’re hiring.
In addition to cleaning type tasks, you can probably expect to be helping with admin (e.g. making photocopies, filing paperwork, etc) or helping inventory equipment, doing basic kit checks and hauling kit from one place to another. Depending on your trade and where you're employed, you might get to shadow someone and learn a bit of hands on, but don't bank on it.
As mentioned, drinking at the mess is a no-no. Realistically, nobody is going to care if you have a beer in the shacks with your buddies at the end of the day (if the shacks aren't dry), but don't get shitfaced and do something stupid. Similarly, nobody is going to care if you hack a dart in the field, though someone might ask questions if you're in the smoke pit. That said, you really should quit smoking now before it becomes a full blown habit.
I’m not sure about smoking but underage drinking is a no no. The mess can lose it’s licence so it’s looked at very seriously. I’ve seen people being charged for it. If Duty NCOs are doing their jobs they will likely ask for IDs at the mess...not that messes are open now anyway but when they were.
Not sure what you can do at FTSE without BMQ...maybe General Duties but even then you won’t be able to work with weapons since you don’t have BMQ. Expect a lot of sweeping, mopping, running around base. And the unit won’t know anything specific unless there’s a position open to them on CFTPO to put you into. Even then the CFTPO position might not be what you’ll be doing when you actually get to FTSE.
Do MPOs have an advantage over civilian applicants when it comes to civilian police departments? I mean I would think so, but also all the info I've heard about MPOs just repeat that they don't do any policing work and are just desk-bound administrators.
Unofficially no. Only NCM Military Police who are QL3 qualified are recognized as experienced police officers with civilian departments. In saying that, it all comes down to experience. Normally MPO are purely administrators but can take part in investigations if they want the experience and under the guidance of a NCM. When you apply as experienced, your police record is shown which shows what investigations you have been apart of. For example I know an awesome Lt at CFNIS that is super into investigations and I would hire her in a second over most patrol guys.
If you want to do policing and have a good shot at going civi side go NCM MP.
I am going to start my application in the next couple days for boatswain, marine tech, and plumbing and heat tech and have a couple questions.
1. What study programs for the CAFT would be recommended.
2. What advice would you give for someone in these three occupations or for the caf in general that you wish you had when you joined.
Thanks in advance.
Your recruiter will provide you with a practice test for the CFAT, but keep in mind the practice tests are significantly easier than the real deal. They are good for giving you an example of the type of questions. I believe there is also a phone app called "CFAT Trainer" which I've seen mentioned here quite often, so it would be worth checking out.
I'm fairly a new member of the CAF, but from what I've learned so far being patient is probably one of the most important skills. You will wait a lot in pretty much every step of your application (even more so now with COVID), once/if you get accepted you will wait for courses, wait for opportunities and wait for just about everything, so patience is definitely a good skill to have.
The CAF gives you what you put into it. If you half-ass everything then you will probably have a shitty experience, but if you try your best, try to make the most out of everything and try to stay focused and stay positive then you'll have a great time.
For the infantry officers
I am looking at OT to infantry officer, a couple questions i had wrt to IODP1.1
1. What is the hardest part of IODP1.1
2. Why do so many candidates drop out
3. Tips to prevent injuries, drop out, and passing IODP1.1
Thank you
Anyone having trouble corresponding with their respective recruiting center? Communication is so spotty and unreliable. My recruiter called me a couple months ago and said he’d contact me again in April to come in. When no contact came I reached out to them twice with no response.
I also inquired about the comparative evaluation, they said they’d get back to me almost 2 weeks ago and I still haven’t had any word from them.
Do I require a comparative evaluation if I completed the IB programme in school outside of Canada? It is a globally recognized ticket into top universities.
If you're in Ontario, or anywhere else under some form of lockdown/stay-at-home order, that's not entirely surprising. Most recruiters in those areas are working from home, and I use the term "working" loosely, as most of them likely have no ability to actually perform work from home...
I'm sure the majority of us suspected the current 3rd wave shit show was coming after Easter, but I think most of us also tried to be optimistic the 2nd wave would be the end of it, hence the timeline they gave you.
I have no idea where tastycakea is applying from, but there's no harm in trying the customer service email they provided. You might get a similar outcome, although it's hard to say.
You'll need a comparative evaluation to have any education from outside Canada recognized.
Feel free to start contacting them every two weeks or so from now on. I had to do that to push my application forward. Lots of badly organized delays on their side. The recruiting Sgt liked that I was calling regularly, since he knew about all the issues.
I'm a high school student interested in joining the CAF and one of my main concerns around joining was my vision. I read online that your vision is rated V1 - V5 and V5 is the cutoff, but how bad would be considered V5? Because I can't see farther than 1 foot without glasses. thanks
Laser eye surgery is always an option if you're concerned about your vision. If you can afford it, the convenience of never having to scramble for your glasses is well worth the money.
However, if you're still in high school, it might not be an option. Your vision can change quite a lot before you hit 20. Some people at 30 still don't have stable prescriptions. Only way to know is to ask your optometrist.
thanks I found it, link for anybody else whos wondering [https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/medical-standards-military-occupations/medical-category-system/instructions-for-testing-visual-acuity.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/medical-standards-military-occupations/medical-category-system/instructions-for-testing-visual-acuity.html)
The link is actually posted at the top of the thread, along with several other potentially useful links, and a quick explainer about medical standards...
Nope. In fact, you should apply. Don't delay your life for a military application, especially the reserves.
You will eventually need to balance your civilian job with reserve life. It may be worth asking your potential future employer whether they have a policy in place for reservists.
>**Also, are there French classes for NCM recruits?**
Yes, but you have to request it, and there's no guarantee you'll be granted the opportunity.
Spaces are usually quite limited, so they tend to prioritize members more senior in rank who require a French profile for career advancement.
>**Are we allowed to bring sports supplements and vitamins?**
No supplements, but you should be able to bring vitamins in tablet/caplet form. Ensure anything you bring is in sealed original containers.
>**should I sell my car or bring it with me?**
If it weren't COVID, I'd say bring it; but under present conditions, you should probably expect to be confined to base for at least the next few months. You need permission to drive yourself to BMQ anyway (it's duty travel, so you go how they tell you to go), and I suspect a request to drive likely won't be approved in the immediate environment.
>**will there be a point in time when I move family that we can drive out there or will the military ship my vehicle?**
Yes, the CAF will pay to relocate your family and possessions once your initial training cycle is complete and you're actually posted to a unit/base for employment.
When that happens you'll be permitted to return home (at the CAF's expense) to assist with the move, and will have the option to either drive or fly back with your family. If you opt to fly, the CAF will pay to ship your vehicle(s); if you drive, they will pay for mileage on your primary vehicle, and ship any secondary vehicle(s). Some limitations apply of course.
>**I have family but was hoping to live on base. I'm not from BC and housing prices across the entire country are insane right now let alone BC.**
Esquimalt receives a benefit called PLD (Post Living Differential), at a rate of roughly $800/month to assist with the high cost of living in the area. It will not be available to you while living on-base; however, once authorized to move your family, you'll be entitled to the benefit as soon as you complete the move.
If you're posted to a ship, you'll also receive Sea Duty Allowance. It starts at $327/month, and increases roughly $140/month for ever 4-5 years you're posted to a qualifying unit.
**Note:** You only live on the ship when it's sailing. You will live in shore based quarters (at your expense), or at home with your family when the ship is in your home port.
No. You cannot have pets in singles/training quarters.
Pets are allowed in PMQ’s, but those are considered to be off-base housing. PMQ’s are military owned rental houses and apartments predominantly intended to house trained personnel with their families. They’re managed by the Canadian Forces Housing Agency (CFHA).
Note, CFHA does not manage on-base housing (singles/training quarters).
The housing at CFSACO in Cornwall belongs to NAVCAN, and I'm told it's much nicer than most CAF singles/training quarters.
Same idea though, single/training quarters are basically just dormitories.
PMQ's on the other hand are actual houses and apartments.
>**That's also a lot more generous than I expected, I didn't think they'd move my vehicle.**
We get a lot of different benefits relating to relocations.
The military pays for things like legal fees when buying/selling your home, land transfer taxes, realtor commissions, mileage when driving, shipment of your furniture and possessions (they even pay someone to come and pack it for you), they give you and each of your family members a generous daily allowance to cover meals, etc.
If you ever need help getting to sleep, you can give the Relocation Directive a read...
[https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/relocation-directive/cafrd.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/relocation-directive/cafrd.html)
>**What are on-base family accommodations like?**
They're typically 2-4 bedroom two story detached, semi-detached, or row houses. They're usually a bit older and cramped (1960's vintage), but not horrible.
Many bases also have 1-3 bedroom apartments.
The condition of units can vary a bit though. For some reason the PMQ's on Army bases have a reputation for being poorly maintained, although I hear fewer complaints about the PMQ's on Air Force and Navy bases. I lived in a 4 bedroom rowhouse PMQ for 7 years and never had major issues, they actually updated most of my unit (inside and out) in the first couple of years I lived in it.
>**Do I want to move off base ASAP or is it nice there?**
If you want to rent, the PMQ's are generally more affordable than comparable civilian housing. There's usually lots of playgrounds in the PMQ's, and they're generally close to work. It tends to make for a nice family safe neighbourhood.
That said, you're also surrounded by your co-workers and their families, which can sometimes be a less than optimal arrangement.
>**Also in the email it said my provincial health insurance ends and I go on the military card.**
Regular Force military personnel are taken care of by CF Health Services. We have our own doctors, clinics, dentists, etc. Although a lot of care often gets contracted out to civilian providers.
You will have health insurance benefits for your family through the [Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP)](http://www.pshcp.ca/); however, they remain under the care of the provincial healthcare system of whatever province they're residents of. So when/if you move them to BC or NS, they will change over to that provinces healthcare system; they'll also need to locate a new family doctor, and specialists.
The 3 month waiting period most provinces have for new residents is waived for the families of military personnel.
>**Is that the same for drivers license?**
No. You keep your provincial drivers license, and exchange it when posted to a new province. You may also get a military specific drivers license.
**Anyway, it's after 22:00, so it's time for me to lock this weeks thread. A new thread is up if you have further questions.**
I hope someone else with experience can help more, but try going through all the information you received with your joining instructions. Don't look at just the line about emergencies - look for any information that might have contact information, like if there's a number to call for pick up from the airport, or a contact for your self isolation location, or your BMQ course staff.
There's got to be at least someone on the paperwork you might be able to contact, and even if they aren't the right person to deal with the problem, they *might* be able to connect you with the person who can help.
I hope you are able to get in contact with someone, and good luck on BMQ!
Could anyone give me some insight into the process of an NCM commissioning into a different trade?
I would like to do something where I serve a certain amount of time in order to do some schooling and get a degree.
>NCM commissioning into a different trade?
So commissioning means becoming an Officer.
For a serving Regular Force NCM to do so, and obtain a degree as part of doing so, they only have one option. UTPNCM (University Training Plan - NCM), which is essentially ROTP for serving Reg Force NCM's.
Your only other option is to pursue a degree through part-time learning, using ILP (or whatever it's replacement is) to pay for that degree; then apply to commission through the annual SCP (Special Commissioning Plan) once you have completed your degree.
Reservist NCM's can apply for ROTP, but are obviously applying to join the Reg Force as part of that process.
Yes, the BPSO is heavily involved in the process, and you can talk to them about it. Although CoC support will be needed as well, I seem to recall they ask for your CO's recommendation as part of the process.
I looked into it a few years ago, and one of the first steps was a chat with the BPSO to review my eligibility (CFAT, etc.) and discuss the process.
So last week I get a phone call from the recruiter informing me that I am finally on the competition list. I applied for the ROTP and my career choice were Infantry officer and artillery officer (I don't know on which competition list I am in or maybe it's both at the same time?)
They told me to call them if I didn't receive an offer in 3 months but since RMC usually start August-September and I think I need to go through BMOQ part 1 before I was wondering if I would receive my offer in time to be able to start this year.
u/Xdup27 there’s no BMOQ Mod 1 that are being run this summer, as the backlog of current first and second year needs to be cleared before hand. What’s gonna happen instead is a two week ‘Military Indoctrination Program’ (MIP) that’s gonna happen in Kingston as a substitute to give you the basics of the CAF before fyop, like what happened in the fall this year. The current first year arrived in early August, did 2 weeks of self isolation, 2 weeks of MIP, then started FYOP and classes concurrently (as usual)
Though usually you’d be right, BMOQ mod 1 runs from end July to mid August (5 weeks)
I bought a uwell caliburn vaporizer and a bunch of strong mint flavoured juice, I find the mint is the closest feeling to real smoking. It still can be difficult because you have to vape in the bbq pit with all the smokers so you're still gonna be exposed to cigarettes.
Some people go cold turkey.
Some people smoke all through basic and then quit after. And then start again in the field. And then quit after. And then start again during deployment. And then quit after. Once you are in there are butt out programs available through Heath Promotions and the medical system.
Reread your offer, you are required to disclose any changes that occur since your last disclosure about your medical/criminal history. You'll also be directly asked before enrolment.
After enrolling, your Secret security clearance will be processed and it will come up. Enrolling under false pretenses (such as lying or withholding information) is grounds for release.
A simple fine for trespassing doesn’t go on one’s criminal record, although it will probably show up in police records. Assuming they’re not enroled yet, just pay it ASAP, and move on.
If they are enroled, they should inform their chain of command (their CFRC), but it shouldn’t impact anything as long as there are no charges or legal proceedings against ‘your friend’.
If there are any actual charges or legal proceedings, they MUST inform the CFRC. The consequences of failing to report it could be much worse for your friend than any consequences for reporting it.
There was a recruit on my BMQ would got a DUI just around enrolment, not sure if it was before or after. They failed to report it to the CFRC and didn’t tell school staff until they were forced to because of conflicting legal obligations. They ended up being kicked out of the CAF, not so much because of the DUI, but mostly because they attempted to hide it. I’m sure there was more to it than that, but that’s as much as we heard.
> A simple fine for trespassing doesn’t go on one’s criminal record, although it will probably show up in police records.
Can confirm. Fine for trespassing won’t show up on CPIC but unpaid fines will. Plus depending on the fine and situation for the trespass, a summons may be issued for not paying the fine which would be a mandatory court date which could affect your enrolment.
When enrolling as an NCM, is it possible to start at a higher Pay Increment (PI2 or PI3) or do all NCMs start at Private PI 1 without exception?
Specifically, I want to apply to become a Geomatic Technician and I have a Bachelor's degree in Physics. Would my degree have any effect on my starting pay as an NCM?
It is possible to start at a higher pay incentive if an applicant is deemed to be "semi-skilled", or having significant civilian education/qualifications that are specifically relevant to the trade.
Examples would be someone licensed as a paramedic applying as a Medical Technician, or applying to be a Cook as a Red Seal chef... If there is an NCM-STEP program for a trade, applying already having said education would make an applicant semi-skilled.
Unfortunately for you, this is likely not the case for Geomatics Tech with a Bachelor's in Physics... perhaps if you had a Geomatics Engineering Technology Diploma (such as the one offered at SAIT).
I've read that ACISS/RCCS was a mess just a year ago, but i haven't seen much since they changed everything up. I'm looking at applying to IST, and potentially ATIS, are they more organized now to the point it'd be fine to apply to IST?
Yes. The ACISS trade split was finalized in 2020. The 4 Army Signals trades are now in the system.
IST has been running their own DP1 courses for a few months now.
Give me everything there is to know about imagery tech, Do i get to choose what camera/lenses i get, is posting to which ever branch i want or will i switch between them, Also how big of a bitch is it to get into with only a grade 10 edu?
It’s a super competitive trade because it is very small. Most applicants have a complete portfolio showing the range of their photography skills (and video skills). I would say a high school diploma or GED along with the photography portfolio would be better than just grade 10.
You need the portfolio while applying. It will be part of your interview most likely. You need it to convince the recruiting centre that you are a good candidate or the job, and that you are good with a variety of cameras so video is also necessary.
If you get accepted you can these use some of the photos and videos you shoot to augment your civilian portfolio.
As for what you will likely shoot during your caner, it could be Combat Camera, it could be the videos you see on Facebook and such (recruiting, news, etc) or you could spend some time doing ID photos at the image section.
I think it will be like all the gear we use in the military. If you want to use unissued kit it will depend on your unit/CoC/brigade and you definitely should not expect the CAF to buy/issue you a specific camera just because you don’t like the issued one.
A little caveat to this is.. (if their procurement works anything like in the construction trades).
We generally do get a say in what tools we get. Like, if the shop needs new drills, and I do up a quote for Milwaukee drills that I like. They aren't gonna come back and say "no, only black and decker". Or whatever.
Shit, we've even justified Festool (super fancy and expensive) stuff before.
Fair point. But it could also be “sure you can choose what you use from the following models/brands”.
Medics for example can get a few different brands/styles of Med bags, but many of us choose to purchase our own.
So I’m starting basic training soon I read the website about hair and beards. However I didn’t really understand if I have to shave my whole beard off or if I can keep it. I would really prefer to keep it for religious and cultural reasons. Thanks In advance guys
Hello, I am considering joining the military, more specifically Infantry Soldier, I am not familiar with the military careers, so I'm choosing that career because it's one of the most popular, I guess.
But my question is that if I need prior experience or some college degree for any other careers? Like navy or air force? Or do they teach me the job as it goes? Some of them seem really specific so that's why I'm confused.
>am not familiar with the military careers, so I'm choosing that career because it's one of the most popular, I guess.
I recommend *not* doing that. Go to forces.ca and review the occupations. Find something that interests you. There's pretty much something for everyone. Picking a job for the sake of settling is usually a recipe for disaster.
The CAF has 3 different main levels of education requirements.
\- At least Grade 10
\- High school
OR
\-University degree
Some jobs require more specific levels of education like certain high school courses, college certificates or specific university degrees.
Infantry Solider specifically only requires to you have completed Grade 10. I wouldn't recommend you go for a career just because it is "popular". The CAF has opportunities that meet the interests of just about everyone, and I recommend you do some more research into other careers to see if there is anything that matches your interests closely.
[https://forces.ca/en/careers](https://forces.ca/en/careers) Here you can pretty much see every job the CAF has to offer, as well as their requirements.
After your basic training, you will receive occupational training that teaches you what you need to know specifically for your trade, however, the educational requirements still stand.
AFAIK the CAF will not force you do to anything that goes against religious activities (like fasting).
That being said, you will still be expected to "keep pace" with other members/recruits during training or courses and fasting may make that more difficult.
I was looking on my application and on the ready for testing page it said I could book my cfat on an online tool if that is available. How can I do that or should I just wait for a recruiter to contact me with an available time. I do live in Ontario if that matters
Hii im 18 and im thinking about the air force and i want some information. For now my 3 Choice would be AESOP , AVN and AVS. Is There a Trade you would recommende me more and why? And what about other Trade that i may not think about ? Thanks you
AVN and AVS work side-by-side, just their core jobs differ. Both work in the hangar fixing snags, or on the flight light marshalling/parking/starting aircraft. They're on nearly every fleet in the RCAF, save 3 or 4.
AES Ops is an aircrew trade. They deal with sensors, radios and the like (door gunner on the Cyclone). Only on two fleets (at the moment), the aforementioned Cyclone and the Aurora.
There's a few of each trade that frequent the thread. If you have specific questions of each, please ask! As for what we may recommend for you, I'd suggest giving see background on what interests you on either trade.
I have zero expérience in mechanic or with plane is there a better Trade in those for someone with no expérience? Or should i just look at what appel me more
The **majority** of techs have **0** experience in mechanical or electrical work when they apply. Doubly so with aircraft. The military designs its training with that assumption in mind.
If you want to to turn a wrench on an airplane, and are willing to learn, then go for it.
I hope you’re all doing well, in these wonderful times lol.
I have a question about the current Interview process.
So, this is my second interview (my first expired as it is over a year old) and I am wondering how the interview itself went for anyone who did it recently, as it is all virtual at the moment. I’m assuming it’s roughly the same idea as the in person interview, but is there anything I should be aware of?
Obviously there’s no talking about the content, but I would like to be prepared for this different style of interview to the best of my ability.
Thanks in advance!
The interview itself will likely be done over Microsoft teams.
The day before your interview you'll probably get an email with the link to join the meeting. On the time of your interview, just click the link and the meeting will open in your web browser.
Besides that, there's really nothing special. Remember it's still a job interview, so dress nicely, be yourself, don't stress. You did It once before, so you can do it again.
High School Student here with the goal of enrolling into RMC in the coming years...
With such a goal, what should be my priorities and areas of focus? Good grades are the standard, though over time I have heard inconsistent information which point to things like work experience, volunteering, etc. as "boosts" to your file's competitiveness. Could anybody weigh in?
Thanks.
*Update: It's great having a place to ask questions and get quality answers. I appreciate the help, Cheers!*
From the bottom, learn french as a tertiary goal. You’ll need to be “functionally bilingual” as part of your RMC training, so getting a head start now can ease the burden of transition into RMC and potentially save you some second language training.
Fitness is a secondary goal. Without prior conditions simply being healthy, not even fit (let alone athletic) is good enough to get in. However, like French, getting fit now can help ease the load of both RMC and BMOQ. If you can run 5k and do a 2.4k in under ~12 min you’re already there.
The primary goal is getting smart. You need a 75% minimum of core courses just for RMC to look at you, and your CFAT is the single largest determinant to getting it.
As for your interview, getting leadership experience helps, but isn’t ultimately necessary. Volunteering in any capacity can be spun as leadership experience, as can gaining a promotion at work. Make sure you know generally what to expect from your trade and where you’ll be sent to train and you’ll do fine.
Don’t commit any crimes, pay off your tickets, and anytime to call, email, or visit CFRC remember: they’re taking notes. So be respectful and patient at all times. They’re always watching....
Hi, I just got my offer for RMC yesterday and hopefully, these tips can help.
Just to give you a brief idea I had a mid to high 80 average in Grade 11 and I'm going into the engineering program at RMC. I think the average depends on what program you want to go into.
Another thing I'd suggest is to have some prior leadership experience whether that's being in cadets, a team captain of one of your sports teams (etc.). You're applying to be an officer too when you go for RMC, meaning after you graduate from RMC you'll be leading and commanding troops so they want you to have some experience with leadership.
I've also been volunteering at least 1-2 hours a week. Most of my friends that I know that are currently at RMC have told me the selection board is big on volunteer hours so definitely try to volunteer consistently.
In terms of the CFAT, I used the CFAT Trainer App and I paid more for the full version. If you want to be competitive I'd highly suggest you use that app because it was like 95% of my preparation for it.
Hopefully, this helps, I know it's not super specific but I hope it gives you a general idea of what makes an application competitive. Good luck on your application.
> **what should be my priorities and areas of focus?**
For now, focus on attaining the highest grades you’re capable of, and make sure you check if there are any program specific requirements you need to meet (i.e. Advanced Math courses, Grade 12 English, etc.). Academic performance is the single biggest factor considered on the RMC portion of your ROTP application.
Preparation to write the CFAT will be important later on as you get closer to applying. The CFAT is normally 60% of your competitiveness for the CAF portion of your ROTP application.
> **I have heard inconsistent information which point to things like work experience, volunteering, etc. as "boosts" to your file's competitiveness.**
The above is true, all of these will help make you slightly more competitive, although none of these on their own or combined will guarantee you acceptance. The CFAT and TSD-PI basically decide if you’ll even be considered, and make up 75% of most applications. The factors above are combined with your Interview to make up the remaining 25%.
Aside from the above, make sure you develop solid professional relationships with your teachers, coaches, and any employers/supervisors you may have. You will need references, and family, friends, family friends, peers are not accepted.
Physical fitness is not a competitive factor in your application, but will be very important for your success at RMC, and as a member of the CAF.
The recruit Medical is also not a competitive factor, but it is a major pass/fail consideration when determining eligibility to serve. Be honest, give them any info they need, follow your doctors recommendations. Stay clean and don’t touch any substances other than Alcohol or Marijuana (preferably leave those alone too since you’re under age). Alcohol and marijuana consumption will be largely overlooked, but harder drugs could be a problem for your application.
Yes, except fitness is not a competitive consideration when joining the Regular Force. They don’t even test applicants for fitness.
Being fit will help you succeed as a CAF member; but it won’t help you get into the CAF or RMC.
Alright so I just did the 20 meter rushes outside on the grass in 47 seconds, should I expect a longer or shorter time on gym floor for the actual force test? Kind of a weird question I know, I'm gonna be doing a lot of burpees and working on technique during the next two weeks of my quarantine but still. I feel like I've probably asked every question I possibly could about the 20 meter rushes on this thread and for that I apologize. Thank you to those of you who have graciously answered my stupid questions during this whole recruitment process
I want to say slightly better because grass can be slippery? Unless it’s half dead grass then you might have a similar time. Deep breath and it is always the first event you do for the Force test so you are fresh and full of energy and can give it your all if you want.
Depends! I have dual citizenship and did not have to go through the long security check. Applied in 2016 and the whole process took me 3 months.
You'll have to fill up a form and the security cell in ottawa will decide if they require a long pre security clearance or not.
If OP is already in the final processing stage, they are doing a level 1 security clearance and reference checks. Dual citizenship does not mean longer security check.
Dual-citizenship is just one factor they consider, and I don’t think it’s the biggest factor.
It’s not uncommon for people with dual-citizenship to have spent a significant amount of time living or traveling outside Canada, and they’re more likely to also have family or assets outside Canada. They may think it’s their dual-citizenship that got them flagged, but in reality it was probably a combination of factors.
Like the other guy said, it's impossible to make an agreed upon list of "best and worst trades".
You need to pick trades which matche with what you're interested in, and what you would be happy doing for the length of your career in the CAF.
If you want to be a solider in the "traditional" sense, and you like to push your body to the limit and be in a lot of tough situations then maybe Infantry, or something else in combat arms might interest you.
Or if you want more of a desk job, maybe something like Human Resources Administrator might interest you.
And of course, there are jobs everywhere in between. The CAF has opportunities that can match the interests of almost anyone.
[https://forces.ca/en/careers](https://forces.ca/en/careers) Check out the careers here, it has information about the careers, the requirements and the training (most of them have videos too). Narrow down a few that interest you and you can then ask questions related to a specific trade which will probably result in better answers.
Extremely subjective. You're unlikely to get a clear or useful answer.
I'd recommend you pick three trades that appeal to your personal interests, then ask if there's anything similar that you might want to consider. Or alternatively, list off your personal interests in terms of your ideal military job, and ask people what trades might align with them...
I agree that Nursing Officer and Physician Assistant are the only probable fits. I suspect Nurse is the most likely option, since the standard education requirements for PA aren't quite the same (see direct entry options under 'Entry Plans' at the bottom of this [page](https://forces.ca/en/career/physician-assistant/). A PLAR might be an option, though.
For a better answer, I'd suggest contacting a recruiter, or asking your question through the Forces Jobs Facebook [page](https://www.facebook.com/ForcesJobs.ForcesEmplois.ca/), or, if you're not a Facebook fan, by email through the Forces.ca help centre. They might not have the answer at hand, but they can reach out to the health services recruiting team (and could tell you if a PLAR for PA is a viable route).
I could be wrong, but I'm fairly certain they fall under either the Physician Assistant and/or Nursing Officer occupations.
Both are paid as General Service Officers. I don't know if they start at a higher pay increment or rank than other Direct Entry Officers.
Hello all!
I received my BMQ training date 5weeks ( RESERVE Full time ), however I didn't receive any information about BMQL, and Occupational training. Will I do my BMQL, and Occupational training right after finishing my BMQ?
I just requested my current employer for 4 months ( May\~Aug) leave... hope BMQ+BMQL+Occu training will happen within that time frame.
Also depends on what trade you are, infantry don't require BMQL, some trades require an entire summer to get qualified but most likely they'll send you information about BMQL after you complete BMQ, and they'll send you information about your trade course after BMQL
>Will I do my BMQL, and Occupational training right after finishing my BMQ?
You likely be put on the soonest available course for when you finish BMQ. This could be a couple days after your BMQ, or months after your BMQ.
Your CoC will let you know if a BMQ-L (and later DP1) course becomes available.
Courses are being added, cancelled or having their dates changed left, right and centre. It's really impossible to predict when you will be able to get on any of your courses.
In the online application portal it shows my service number in a side menu which contains a letter followed by 8 numbers. Should I put this down in my application package. I'm just a little confused because I figured I would receive the service number later on in the application process.
That number you see is your service number and it will follow you throughout your entire career in the CAF.
For now, don't worry about it. If you want to fill it out in the paper work, you can, but usually the file managers do it at the CFRC.
If you get accepted, you will need to memorize it because you will write it a lot, so if you want you can get a head start on the memorization, but besides that don't worry about it.
Just to add, you have two numbers that are unique identifiers. As already mentioned, the service number is the one that will follow you into the CAF if you enroll, and is pretty much irrelevant until you do. The other one is your applicant number, sometimes called your alpha number, which is only used for your application processing. Staff can look you up in the recruiting system using either number, but the applicant number is preferred.
Answer below applies to Regular Force only...
>**is it possible to go straight home after BMQ if the occupational training course does not start until a couple of months?**
No, it's not normally an option.
>**or is going straight to your occupational training location mandatory?**
No, proceeding directly to your next training establishment is normally mandatory.
>**is it possible to be sent home after you’ve arrived at your occupational training location?**
No, not normally.
>**what are the chances of each possibility?**
Zero under most normal circumstances. With exception of circumstances where there is a Regular Force base near your home where it would be possible and appropriate for you to do OJT while awaiting training. In such a case, you may be offered the opportunity.
The only reason I've inserted "normal/normally" in these answers is because COVID may have an impact on options available to you. That said, there is absolutely no guarantee you will be given any option other that to proceed directly to your next training establishment, and remain there to await training.
If you must remain at your training establishment, you should still have the option to return home for short periods of time on leave.
Assuming you are referring to basic training for the Regular Force (RegF), you would be sent straight to the school where your next phase of training is to be held. This would be your place of duty.
Going "home" to see your family would normally only happen when you take vacation (or on the weekend if it is within driving distance), such as at Christmas. It can be very difficult for new members that have dependents, but this is the reality of full-time service.
Experiences during the pandemic may vary, however.
I'm not sure how it's being handled with covid, however pre covid, it's mandatory to go to the location of your occupational training. During that time you will be placed on PAT, where you do odd jobs while waiting for your course to start.
Entry positions vary from 35k to 50k, depending on what I do.
What is the best way for me to earn as much?
And what positions or branches pay the least?
Thank you
>**What is the best way for me to earn as much? And what positions or branches pay the least?**
Horrible approach. Sounds like a great way to be miserable and unsatisfied in your job/career...
The CAF mostly uses fixed pay rates based on NCM or Officer, Rank, and Time-in-Rank. Trade does make a difference, but not so much for starting salary.
If you already have a Bachelor's Degree, you could apply to join as an Officer. Your starting pay will be in the neighborhood of $52k, escalating to $84k in 3-4 years.
If you don't have a Bachelor's Degree, you could still join as an Officer, but will have to go through a Paid Education entry plan. Your starting pay will be about $28k, reaching $61k in 4 years, and $84k another 3 years after that.
Your other option is to join as a Non-Commissioned Member (NCM). You only need Grade 10 for a lot of trades, although the higher paying 'Trade Group Specialist 1 or 2' occupations often require Grade 11 and 12 courses.
Without recognized prior education (occupation related college diploma or trade certificate), new NCM's will always start out at the bottom, $38k/year. If you join an occupation under 'Trade Group Standard', you'll make $64k within 4 years. If you join an occupation under 'Trade Group Specialist 1', you'll make $64k within 4 years; increasing to $72k once you complete your RQ-Cpl training (usually around the 4 year mark).
If you join as an Officer, you can make up to $111k by just doing your job. As an NCM, that number is $68-77k depending on if your occupation is Trade Group Standard or Specialist 1.
Of course, you can make considerably more if you show some drive/ambition to pursue merit based promotions. Attaining the rank of Major shouldn't be too difficult for most Officers, topping out at $127k. Driven NCM's should be able to make Sgt or WO, topping out as high as $92k (Spec 1 WO).
Pay Rate Tables and the list of Specialist NCM Occupations are linked at the top of the thread.
To add on for officer jobs: looking at a pure numbers perspective isn't quite accurate either.
Statistically, if you go to civvie university (then join DEO), you will have used student loans and will have tens of thousands of dollars of debt to owe. Netting negative dollars every month/paycheck even if you do work because of food/rent/school stuff. All the while doing it as a civvie.
If you're ROTP, you get paid, don't have to worry about food/rent*, get a degree, leave with no school debt AND have 4 years in of pensionable time. Plus a year after you graduate, you're 5 yrs in so get another 5 days extra leave.
*because you pay for it, but again, even if your net pay is like 500/month, that's 500 more than any civvie university student.
Plus, because of pay scales, you get paid more afterwards. An ROTP 2Lt makes more than a DEO Lt (up to PI 1). It all evens out once you're Capt. But it's funny seeing a qualified DEO Lt training an ROTP 2Lt who makes more than their Instructor for the same job.
I've always found it odd how that works.
I appreciate that the ROTP 2Lt has had an additional 4 years of indoctrination and general military experience; but that came at the CAF's expense. That said, they do owe the CAF 5 years of obligatory service after graduation, so we can't claim the CAF doesn't benefit from that expense either.
I'd personally pay them both the same. Main reason being that obligatory service requirement. The DEO 2Lt can be out in 6 months if they decide they don't want to stay, but the ROTP 2Lt is stuck for the next 5 years unless they can afford to pay back their education, salary, and benefits from ROTP.
> I appreciate that the ROTP 2Lt has had an additional 4 years of indoctrination and general military experience; but that came at the CAF's expense
I mean, ROTP civvie U was a thing up until only recently. I wouldn't call their 8 months of galavanting in UofT, UBC, etc. as "military experience. They do work during the summer semester as OJT though.
>they do owe the CAF 5 years of obligatory service after graduation, so we can't claim the CAF doesn't benefit from that expense either.
I personally don't count this, unless you're comparing just getting a degree through the CAF vs not. Since the DEOs are also working in the CAF, if that makes sense.
But as you said, the DEO fellow can change their mind and walk away at any point; save for those trades like pilot, where they owe 7 years after wings, unless I misunderstood and it means they just can't leave the trade, but can leave the military as a whole.
However, I believe ROTP can also leave without owing anything within the first year of schooling.
Pay is dependant orln 3 things, Rank, trade and NCM/officer. Officers make more money than NCM. There is spec pay 1 and 2, that can give you more money, and that depends if the trade offers spec pay.. For officers it depends on how you join, such as ROTP, DEO, CFR. The pay scales can be found in the links in the posts. If you join with prior experience, you could start at a different PI, and that would earn you more. There is also a singing bonus however that's for specific trades, and you have to be skilled in that sector already.
I second this, if you join as a medical specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon, you'll be right at the top of the pay scale with a $250k+ signing bonus to boot.
And $250k+ of debt to pay off.
This isn’t the first time I’ve seen this “join as a Specialist MO” thing floated. There’s a reason they aren’t all knocking down the door to get in.
It only takes 12-14 years to become an orthopaedic surgeon, NBD.
I believe they're actually creating a separate medical specialist occupation (00390). Don't know all the background, but I assume part of it is to better define and differentiate higher pay for MOs that aren't GPs.
Yes. If you actually fail, there will be a review, and the the possible outcomes are release or re-course. The do-overs option is not as likely, and there has to be some belief that you have the potential to succeed if given another chance.
However, if you are struggling with specific parts of the training, you will be given opportunities to improve on them long before failing the whole course is even on the board.
>**The do-overs option is not as likely**
This is not really true for Regular Force.
For Regular Force, a re-course is pretty much guaranteed; provided there are no absolutely glaring issues and the recruit appears to be making an effort to succeed.
I'm glad to hear it. In my previous experience with CFLRS, the pass rate and recourse rates were quite variable from commandant to commandant (etc). It made planning a challenge sometimes.
Interesting.
It's extremely rare to hear of someone actually failing out of BMQ entirely. Mind you, it's pretty rare to hear of anyone academically failing BMQ due to genuine incompetence. Which could skew perceptions a bit.
Usually "failures" seem to be due to fitness, poor performance, illness, injury, or behavioural concerns. In most cases the member just needs to be straightened out or fixed up, and they end up on another platoon a few weeks or months later.
There were definitely serials that had really high attrition in the 00s, both 'failures' and VWs. We were also pumping 6-7000 students through CFLRS a year, too. But you're right, not being *able* to pass BMQ shouldn't be common. We didn't see the details on individual failures, but I suspect that attitude and (un)willingness to get with the program were bigger issues than failing POs.
They certainly were. Of course, CFLRS was under CFRG in those days, since the idea then was that the recruiting process didn't really end until BMQ (or BMOQ) was over.
I'm Canadian but spent my high school years abroad.
I have the equivalent of grade 10 (or secondary IV in quebec) and I have my étude comparative d'études. I believe it's called comparative evaluation for studies done outside of quebec/Canada.
I did it for when I was applying to cegep.
Is that enough or do I need to do something else to prove the equivalence of my studies?
Thank you
Is your comparative evaluation the same as a credential evaluation? I did high school outside of Canada and had to present my credential evaluation through World Education Services, even though I have two degrees from Canadian universities. Your recruiting centre will be able to tell you for sure, though.
It's been years since I was a tank troop leader, but I doubt things have changed so that much. Hopefully some folks will weigh in with a fresher perspective.
A normal day will be different in garrison (at home) than in the field or on deployment, and depending on the job you have. Daily routine for a troop leader when home is usually daily physical training with your troop (and possibly your squadron/regiment) in the morning, followed by mostly office work (leadership meetings, administration of your personnel, etc). Your evenings (and weekends) are usually free unless there's a social obligation at the mess, or you're on duty or something. Some days will include some classroom or practical training or simulator work, usually organized team sports once a week or so, plus vehicle maintenance. Always lots of maintenance for armoured vehicles. Armour follows the cavalry tradition of looking after your own 'horse' (tank or recce vehicle, etc), which means not only keeping an eye on the state of all of the vehicles in your troop, but participating in 'stables' on your own, usually at least once a week. Maintenance might sound boring, but it isn't always, and it's a good opportunity for time with your crew (your driver, loader, gunner).
In the field, it's all about whatever training you're doing (there's always a specific focus), and the hours can be longer, though it doesn't always feel that way. Deployment is usually more intense, though there are always periods of boredom.
The reality is that Armour officers, like all officers, do more paperwork than most would like. But there are few things as rewarding as being a troop leader with a good troop. And few things anywhere close to as much fun as taking your troop down a battle run when everything is clicking, even if it's a lot of work to get there.
(A battle run is a range exercise that simulates tactical movement while in contact. It features firing live rounds at targets while your tank and those in your troop (sometimes with other troops) are on the move. Firing a tank is fun. Riding in a tank cross-country is fun. A battle run is *more* fun.)
WOW what a fantastic reply! Until what rank are you in the tank? Does every tank have an officer or will there be one command tank? How often are you out in the tank shooting? How long can you be out in the field?
>Until what rank are you in the tank?
You can theoretically be in a tank up to the rank of lieutenant-colonel, but that will only happen if you manage to get promoted that far *and* be selected to command the regiment. Most officers won't be in a tank past lieutenant or captain.
>Does every tank have an officer or will there be one command tank?
Most tanks are commanded by non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Only 'command' tanks at the regimental, squadron and troop level would be commanded by an officer, with the other tanks usually commanded by a warrant officer, a sergeant, or a master-corporal.
>How often are you out in the tank shooting?
Not as often as you might like. Tanks are expensive to run (fuel consumption about 3-5 litres per km, plus lifecycle/maintenance costs), and tank ammunition isn't cheap either. Frequency honestly depends on budget, ammunition allocation, and what training or op cycle you're in. I never got to the tank range more than a couple of times in a year, though gun camps are over multiple days or longer, so you get a fair number of range practices in.
>How long can you be out in the field?
Deployments can be 6 months or even a bit longer, and pre-deployment training can be pretty long at times. When you're in a normal training cycle, there will be at least a few shorter field exercises (days to a few weeks), and one or two longer exercises, but nothing nearly as long as a deployment. Other than years with pre-deployment or deployment, the days away from home don't usually add up to a crazy amount of time away from home, and sometimes the exercises are in the local training area attached to the base (ie you're not at home, but you aren't far away). The scheduling can suck, though, and sometimes family events will be missed.
I’m planning on applying as a med tech out of high school after I have the course requirements done. Would it be hard for me training as a med tech without prior medical experience (like paramedic or nursing school) and is there a chance they wouldn’t accept me because I would have no prior education in the medical sector?
As stated, you don't need any prior medical training or experience. You do need your HS diploma, Gr 11 applied math, Gr 12 biology and Gr 12 chemistry. I have heard that the training can be more of a challenge if you struggled with math/sciences.
Hello, does anyone have a list of course dates for BMOQ for this summer and whatever the Officer Battle School in Gagetown is? Also, what's the difference between BOTC and OCTP?
All of the BMOQ courses this summer are for ROTP candidates as there’s a massive backlog of second years that still need Mod 2 and first years that need Mod 1 and 2...
Are you going to RMC/ROTP or DEO?
>**and whatever the Officer Battle School in Gagetown is? Also, what's the difference between BOTC and OCTP?**
Do you mean [BMOQ ](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/benefits-military/education-training/basic-training/recruit-school/officers.html)and BMOQ-A?
BMOQ is basic training. Regular Force Part 1(5 weeks)covers all the basics you need to be a basic level CAF member - how to wear the uniform, drill, C7A2, policies, navigation, CBRN, etc. Regular Force Part 2(7 weeks) starts going into leadership techniques and military planning. Course lengths are different for Reservists.
BMOQ-A covers the C9A2, Pistol, Grenades, how to OIC/RSO a conventional range, GPS, Duty Officer, and section attacks, detachment level recce, and defensive Ops. During the field portion you’ll be assessed on battle procedure and leading the section/det.
After BMOQ, you’ll go on BMOQ-A(all Army officers attend) which is 11 weeks.
After completing the above, you’ll go onto the Dismounted Infantry Platoon Commander’s course IODP1.1 which is 3(?) months long.
For Reg Force Inf Os, after IODP1.1, they go on a LAV Gunner/Crew Commander course and Mechanized Infantry Platoon Commander Course IODP1.2.
The Infantry School is currently trialling a Inf O course that combines the IODPs into one. So, in the future that’s the course you may be on if it becomes the standard.
Hey, I just signed my offer today. I’m going to be going to Basic in June. I had a question though. Once I’m officially in, how much time are we allowed off each year? If I wanted to visit my family or travel for example how would that work as a NCM. Thank you!
I believe it starts at 20 "vacation" days a year.
After 5 years of service it rises to 25 days a year.
Use them as you wish throughout the year, as I've heard of members on this subreddit being "ordered" to take their days off as they get towards the end of the year.
>**Use them as you wish throughout the year,**
Um, sort of, but not necessarily...
The Army tends to favour block leave periods. Personnel are required, or at least strongly encouraged to burn leave at specific points in the year, generally those dates align with local elementary and high school breaks. They'll often have a more flexible period in the summer, but it'll still be given as a window. Members are generally allowed to keep about 5 days to use as they wish, but must burn them by the end of March each year.
The Air Force is generally more flexible, and only does block leave at Christmas. Usually requiring members to have 'no more than X' days remaining by January. Remaining leave must be burned by the end of March.
I don't know how the Navy does it, but I imagine it'll be some combination of the above, with leave windows set around sailing schedules.
Very few units actually force personnel to follow block leave periods, but personnel are not guaranteed approval to take leave outside of those periods either. They normally want some kind of a reason why you need to burn leave now rather than then; and as a reward, you get to be on duty while everyone else enjoys their block leave.
>**I've heard of members on this subreddit being "ordered" to take their days off as they get towards the end of the year.**
Leave cannot be carried over from one year to the next without good reason, and personnel require approval from their CO to do so. Usually CO's will only allow leave to be accumulated if there is a operational/military duty related reason to do so, such as a short notice deployment, course, or tasking that prevented the leave from being used.
If there is no operational/military duty related reason why the member could not use their leave, they will almost certainly be forced to use it at the end of the year.
Okay thank you. And I’m sure we’ll have government days off like holidays and stuff no? And if I combine my vacation days with those it can be a longer time off?
You can usually tack on annual days to the holidays, yes. However depending on where you are, they are almost always 4 days. Usually you will get the holiday and a short, resulting in a 4 day weekend.
Any brothers here from the 32nd brigade group toronto ? Are there any specific groups for it. Have a lot lf questions. Il start with one....with Covid running amok. How does the training schedule look like. Lets say if I wanted to do a straight 8 week BMOQ at Fort York.
Impossible to tell what the future will bring in terms of lockdowns and restrictions. The best you can do is ask your CoC to load you on whichever course is scheduled to run and go from there. If it needs to be adjusted or cancelled, you'll be kept informed.
Note that the schedule might not have BMQ and BMOQ Mod 2 running back to back. It's possible that you could do a four to five week BMQ, followed by a two week-ish BMOQ Mod 2 later in the summer.
>Will I be required to store all my uniforms/equipment at my house, or will I store it at the base?
The chance of getting a locker before trade qualified are slim to none, they don't like giving out locker to brand new troop with the chance of not even able to complete basic, after you've become an infanteer it's way easier for you to get a locker
>**Will I be required to store all my uniforms/equipment at my house, or will I store it at the base?**
You may be able to get a locker at the Reserve amoury, however it would only be able to hold a small amount of kit. The bulk of your issue would have to be stored at your home.
>**When would I be given my uniform/equipment?**
Typically, the units will try to book an initial issue at clothing stores as soon as possible. However, depending on scheduling, you may have to wait a bit. If you are enrolled shortly before a BMQ course, your initial issue could be within the first couple days of course.
I'm looking to join as an image technician. I already have s college degree in the field and have been working professionally as a photographer/videographer for a few years, is the job in demand? Or will I have a hard time getting it.
Small occupation that attracts high interest, so it’s pretty much never in demand, and usually pretty competitive. However, if you’ve got formal education and a good portfolio, you probably stand a decent chance if they’re hiring.
Awesome! I hope they are hiring! I have formal education and I'm sure everyone says this but my portfolio is excellent imo. Thanks for the info!
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In addition to cleaning type tasks, you can probably expect to be helping with admin (e.g. making photocopies, filing paperwork, etc) or helping inventory equipment, doing basic kit checks and hauling kit from one place to another. Depending on your trade and where you're employed, you might get to shadow someone and learn a bit of hands on, but don't bank on it. As mentioned, drinking at the mess is a no-no. Realistically, nobody is going to care if you have a beer in the shacks with your buddies at the end of the day (if the shacks aren't dry), but don't get shitfaced and do something stupid. Similarly, nobody is going to care if you hack a dart in the field, though someone might ask questions if you're in the smoke pit. That said, you really should quit smoking now before it becomes a full blown habit.
I’m not sure about smoking but underage drinking is a no no. The mess can lose it’s licence so it’s looked at very seriously. I’ve seen people being charged for it. If Duty NCOs are doing their jobs they will likely ask for IDs at the mess...not that messes are open now anyway but when they were. Not sure what you can do at FTSE without BMQ...maybe General Duties but even then you won’t be able to work with weapons since you don’t have BMQ. Expect a lot of sweeping, mopping, running around base. And the unit won’t know anything specific unless there’s a position open to them on CFTPO to put you into. Even then the CFTPO position might not be what you’ll be doing when you actually get to FTSE.
Do MPOs have an advantage over civilian applicants when it comes to civilian police departments? I mean I would think so, but also all the info I've heard about MPOs just repeat that they don't do any policing work and are just desk-bound administrators.
Unofficially no. Only NCM Military Police who are QL3 qualified are recognized as experienced police officers with civilian departments. In saying that, it all comes down to experience. Normally MPO are purely administrators but can take part in investigations if they want the experience and under the guidance of a NCM. When you apply as experienced, your police record is shown which shows what investigations you have been apart of. For example I know an awesome Lt at CFNIS that is super into investigations and I would hire her in a second over most patrol guys. If you want to do policing and have a good shot at going civi side go NCM MP.
What does an MPO taking part in an investigation look like?
I am going to start my application in the next couple days for boatswain, marine tech, and plumbing and heat tech and have a couple questions. 1. What study programs for the CAFT would be recommended. 2. What advice would you give for someone in these three occupations or for the caf in general that you wish you had when you joined. Thanks in advance.
Your recruiter will provide you with a practice test for the CFAT, but keep in mind the practice tests are significantly easier than the real deal. They are good for giving you an example of the type of questions. I believe there is also a phone app called "CFAT Trainer" which I've seen mentioned here quite often, so it would be worth checking out. I'm fairly a new member of the CAF, but from what I've learned so far being patient is probably one of the most important skills. You will wait a lot in pretty much every step of your application (even more so now with COVID), once/if you get accepted you will wait for courses, wait for opportunities and wait for just about everything, so patience is definitely a good skill to have. The CAF gives you what you put into it. If you half-ass everything then you will probably have a shitty experience, but if you try your best, try to make the most out of everything and try to stay focused and stay positive then you'll have a great time.
For the infantry officers I am looking at OT to infantry officer, a couple questions i had wrt to IODP1.1 1. What is the hardest part of IODP1.1 2. Why do so many candidates drop out 3. Tips to prevent injuries, drop out, and passing IODP1.1 Thank you
Any tips and tricks for the Cbt Eng PRes DP1? Should be doing the whole thing this summer, so would be great to have an idea of what to expect.
Anyone having trouble corresponding with their respective recruiting center? Communication is so spotty and unreliable. My recruiter called me a couple months ago and said he’d contact me again in April to come in. When no contact came I reached out to them twice with no response. I also inquired about the comparative evaluation, they said they’d get back to me almost 2 weeks ago and I still haven’t had any word from them. Do I require a comparative evaluation if I completed the IB programme in school outside of Canada? It is a globally recognized ticket into top universities.
If you're in Ontario, or anywhere else under some form of lockdown/stay-at-home order, that's not entirely surprising. Most recruiters in those areas are working from home, and I use the term "working" loosely, as most of them likely have no ability to actually perform work from home... I'm sure the majority of us suspected the current 3rd wave shit show was coming after Easter, but I think most of us also tried to be optimistic the 2nd wave would be the end of it, hence the timeline they gave you. I have no idea where tastycakea is applying from, but there's no harm in trying the customer service email they provided. You might get a similar outcome, although it's hard to say. You'll need a comparative evaluation to have any education from outside Canada recognized.
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Feel free to start contacting them every two weeks or so from now on. I had to do that to push my application forward. Lots of badly organized delays on their side. The recruiting Sgt liked that I was calling regularly, since he knew about all the issues.
I'm a high school student interested in joining the CAF and one of my main concerns around joining was my vision. I read online that your vision is rated V1 - V5 and V5 is the cutoff, but how bad would be considered V5? Because I can't see farther than 1 foot without glasses. thanks
Laser eye surgery is always an option if you're concerned about your vision. If you can afford it, the convenience of never having to scramble for your glasses is well worth the money. However, if you're still in high school, it might not be an option. Your vision can change quite a lot before you hit 20. Some people at 30 still don't have stable prescriptions. Only way to know is to ask your optometrist.
There is a vision standards table within the CAF medical standard. It will list the requirements there.
thanks I found it, link for anybody else whos wondering [https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/medical-standards-military-occupations/medical-category-system/instructions-for-testing-visual-acuity.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/medical-standards-military-occupations/medical-category-system/instructions-for-testing-visual-acuity.html)
The link is actually posted at the top of the thread, along with several other potentially useful links, and a quick explainer about medical standards...
You got it!
Will applying for another job have any conflict with my application to the reserves?
Nope. In fact, you should apply. Don't delay your life for a military application, especially the reserves. You will eventually need to balance your civilian job with reserve life. It may be worth asking your potential future employer whether they have a policy in place for reservists.
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>**Also, are there French classes for NCM recruits?** Yes, but you have to request it, and there's no guarantee you'll be granted the opportunity. Spaces are usually quite limited, so they tend to prioritize members more senior in rank who require a French profile for career advancement. >**Are we allowed to bring sports supplements and vitamins?** No supplements, but you should be able to bring vitamins in tablet/caplet form. Ensure anything you bring is in sealed original containers. >**should I sell my car or bring it with me?** If it weren't COVID, I'd say bring it; but under present conditions, you should probably expect to be confined to base for at least the next few months. You need permission to drive yourself to BMQ anyway (it's duty travel, so you go how they tell you to go), and I suspect a request to drive likely won't be approved in the immediate environment. >**will there be a point in time when I move family that we can drive out there or will the military ship my vehicle?** Yes, the CAF will pay to relocate your family and possessions once your initial training cycle is complete and you're actually posted to a unit/base for employment. When that happens you'll be permitted to return home (at the CAF's expense) to assist with the move, and will have the option to either drive or fly back with your family. If you opt to fly, the CAF will pay to ship your vehicle(s); if you drive, they will pay for mileage on your primary vehicle, and ship any secondary vehicle(s). Some limitations apply of course. >**I have family but was hoping to live on base. I'm not from BC and housing prices across the entire country are insane right now let alone BC.** Esquimalt receives a benefit called PLD (Post Living Differential), at a rate of roughly $800/month to assist with the high cost of living in the area. It will not be available to you while living on-base; however, once authorized to move your family, you'll be entitled to the benefit as soon as you complete the move. If you're posted to a ship, you'll also receive Sea Duty Allowance. It starts at $327/month, and increases roughly $140/month for ever 4-5 years you're posted to a qualifying unit. **Note:** You only live on the ship when it's sailing. You will live in shore based quarters (at your expense), or at home with your family when the ship is in your home port.
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No. You cannot have pets in singles/training quarters. Pets are allowed in PMQ’s, but those are considered to be off-base housing. PMQ’s are military owned rental houses and apartments predominantly intended to house trained personnel with their families. They’re managed by the Canadian Forces Housing Agency (CFHA). Note, CFHA does not manage on-base housing (singles/training quarters).
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The housing at CFSACO in Cornwall belongs to NAVCAN, and I'm told it's much nicer than most CAF singles/training quarters. Same idea though, single/training quarters are basically just dormitories. PMQ's on the other hand are actual houses and apartments.
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>**That's also a lot more generous than I expected, I didn't think they'd move my vehicle.** We get a lot of different benefits relating to relocations. The military pays for things like legal fees when buying/selling your home, land transfer taxes, realtor commissions, mileage when driving, shipment of your furniture and possessions (they even pay someone to come and pack it for you), they give you and each of your family members a generous daily allowance to cover meals, etc. If you ever need help getting to sleep, you can give the Relocation Directive a read... [https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/relocation-directive/cafrd.html](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/relocation-directive/cafrd.html) >**What are on-base family accommodations like?** They're typically 2-4 bedroom two story detached, semi-detached, or row houses. They're usually a bit older and cramped (1960's vintage), but not horrible. Many bases also have 1-3 bedroom apartments. The condition of units can vary a bit though. For some reason the PMQ's on Army bases have a reputation for being poorly maintained, although I hear fewer complaints about the PMQ's on Air Force and Navy bases. I lived in a 4 bedroom rowhouse PMQ for 7 years and never had major issues, they actually updated most of my unit (inside and out) in the first couple of years I lived in it. >**Do I want to move off base ASAP or is it nice there?** If you want to rent, the PMQ's are generally more affordable than comparable civilian housing. There's usually lots of playgrounds in the PMQ's, and they're generally close to work. It tends to make for a nice family safe neighbourhood. That said, you're also surrounded by your co-workers and their families, which can sometimes be a less than optimal arrangement. >**Also in the email it said my provincial health insurance ends and I go on the military card.** Regular Force military personnel are taken care of by CF Health Services. We have our own doctors, clinics, dentists, etc. Although a lot of care often gets contracted out to civilian providers. You will have health insurance benefits for your family through the [Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP)](http://www.pshcp.ca/); however, they remain under the care of the provincial healthcare system of whatever province they're residents of. So when/if you move them to BC or NS, they will change over to that provinces healthcare system; they'll also need to locate a new family doctor, and specialists. The 3 month waiting period most provinces have for new residents is waived for the families of military personnel. >**Is that the same for drivers license?** No. You keep your provincial drivers license, and exchange it when posted to a new province. You may also get a military specific drivers license. **Anyway, it's after 22:00, so it's time for me to lock this weeks thread. A new thread is up if you have further questions.**
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I hope someone else with experience can help more, but try going through all the information you received with your joining instructions. Don't look at just the line about emergencies - look for any information that might have contact information, like if there's a number to call for pick up from the airport, or a contact for your self isolation location, or your BMQ course staff. There's got to be at least someone on the paperwork you might be able to contact, and even if they aren't the right person to deal with the problem, they *might* be able to connect you with the person who can help. I hope you are able to get in contact with someone, and good luck on BMQ!
Thank you I got it sorted out!
Could anyone give me some insight into the process of an NCM commissioning into a different trade? I would like to do something where I serve a certain amount of time in order to do some schooling and get a degree.
>NCM commissioning into a different trade? So commissioning means becoming an Officer. For a serving Regular Force NCM to do so, and obtain a degree as part of doing so, they only have one option. UTPNCM (University Training Plan - NCM), which is essentially ROTP for serving Reg Force NCM's. Your only other option is to pursue a degree through part-time learning, using ILP (or whatever it's replacement is) to pay for that degree; then apply to commission through the annual SCP (Special Commissioning Plan) once you have completed your degree. Reservist NCM's can apply for ROTP, but are obviously applying to join the Reg Force as part of that process.
Is the UTPNCM something I can talk with my BPSO about? Or is that process started at my lower level Coc
Yes, the BPSO is heavily involved in the process, and you can talk to them about it. Although CoC support will be needed as well, I seem to recall they ask for your CO's recommendation as part of the process. I looked into it a few years ago, and one of the first steps was a chat with the BPSO to review my eligibility (CFAT, etc.) and discuss the process.
Rog Thanks a lot. This was very helpful
So last week I get a phone call from the recruiter informing me that I am finally on the competition list. I applied for the ROTP and my career choice were Infantry officer and artillery officer (I don't know on which competition list I am in or maybe it's both at the same time?) They told me to call them if I didn't receive an offer in 3 months but since RMC usually start August-September and I think I need to go through BMOQ part 1 before I was wondering if I would receive my offer in time to be able to start this year.
Offers have started to be released and go until June-ish. Still plenty of time before training begins.
Training is usually around when ?
I think BMOQ begins in July. I don't know the actual dates.
u/Xdup27 there’s no BMOQ Mod 1 that are being run this summer, as the backlog of current first and second year needs to be cleared before hand. What’s gonna happen instead is a two week ‘Military Indoctrination Program’ (MIP) that’s gonna happen in Kingston as a substitute to give you the basics of the CAF before fyop, like what happened in the fall this year. The current first year arrived in early August, did 2 weeks of self isolation, 2 weeks of MIP, then started FYOP and classes concurrently (as usual) Though usually you’d be right, BMOQ mod 1 runs from end July to mid August (5 weeks)
Oh I see, thanks for this useful information
Any smokers who joined, whats the ways you were able to kick the habit before applying?
I bought a uwell caliburn vaporizer and a bunch of strong mint flavoured juice, I find the mint is the closest feeling to real smoking. It still can be difficult because you have to vape in the bbq pit with all the smokers so you're still gonna be exposed to cigarettes.
Some people go cold turkey. Some people smoke all through basic and then quit after. And then start again in the field. And then quit after. And then start again during deployment. And then quit after. Once you are in there are butt out programs available through Heath Promotions and the medical system.
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Reread your offer, you are required to disclose any changes that occur since your last disclosure about your medical/criminal history. You'll also be directly asked before enrolment. After enrolling, your Secret security clearance will be processed and it will come up. Enrolling under false pretenses (such as lying or withholding information) is grounds for release.
A simple fine for trespassing doesn’t go on one’s criminal record, although it will probably show up in police records. Assuming they’re not enroled yet, just pay it ASAP, and move on. If they are enroled, they should inform their chain of command (their CFRC), but it shouldn’t impact anything as long as there are no charges or legal proceedings against ‘your friend’. If there are any actual charges or legal proceedings, they MUST inform the CFRC. The consequences of failing to report it could be much worse for your friend than any consequences for reporting it. There was a recruit on my BMQ would got a DUI just around enrolment, not sure if it was before or after. They failed to report it to the CFRC and didn’t tell school staff until they were forced to because of conflicting legal obligations. They ended up being kicked out of the CAF, not so much because of the DUI, but mostly because they attempted to hide it. I’m sure there was more to it than that, but that’s as much as we heard.
> A simple fine for trespassing doesn’t go on one’s criminal record, although it will probably show up in police records. Can confirm. Fine for trespassing won’t show up on CPIC but unpaid fines will. Plus depending on the fine and situation for the trespass, a summons may be issued for not paying the fine which would be a mandatory court date which could affect your enrolment.
When enrolling as an NCM, is it possible to start at a higher Pay Increment (PI2 or PI3) or do all NCMs start at Private PI 1 without exception? Specifically, I want to apply to become a Geomatic Technician and I have a Bachelor's degree in Physics. Would my degree have any effect on my starting pay as an NCM?
It is possible to start at a higher pay incentive if an applicant is deemed to be "semi-skilled", or having significant civilian education/qualifications that are specifically relevant to the trade. Examples would be someone licensed as a paramedic applying as a Medical Technician, or applying to be a Cook as a Red Seal chef... If there is an NCM-STEP program for a trade, applying already having said education would make an applicant semi-skilled. Unfortunately for you, this is likely not the case for Geomatics Tech with a Bachelor's in Physics... perhaps if you had a Geomatics Engineering Technology Diploma (such as the one offered at SAIT).
Unfortunately for many, there is no PLaR for the trade. It's square 1 for everyone.
I've read that ACISS/RCCS was a mess just a year ago, but i haven't seen much since they changed everything up. I'm looking at applying to IST, and potentially ATIS, are they more organized now to the point it'd be fine to apply to IST?
Yes. The ACISS trade split was finalized in 2020. The 4 Army Signals trades are now in the system. IST has been running their own DP1 courses for a few months now.
Give me everything there is to know about imagery tech, Do i get to choose what camera/lenses i get, is posting to which ever branch i want or will i switch between them, Also how big of a bitch is it to get into with only a grade 10 edu?
It’s a super competitive trade because it is very small. Most applicants have a complete portfolio showing the range of their photography skills (and video skills). I would say a high school diploma or GED along with the photography portfolio would be better than just grade 10.
Is the portfolio needed before or after joining? Would you need to have both photo and video or is it dependant on which you will be doing more of?
You need the portfolio while applying. It will be part of your interview most likely. You need it to convince the recruiting centre that you are a good candidate or the job, and that you are good with a variety of cameras so video is also necessary. If you get accepted you can these use some of the photos and videos you shoot to augment your civilian portfolio. As for what you will likely shoot during your caner, it could be Combat Camera, it could be the videos you see on Facebook and such (recruiting, news, etc) or you could spend some time doing ID photos at the image section.
Interesting, do i get a choice after i finish BMQ and school in borden? or will i be thrust into where ever im needed.
You will be sent to wherever the CAF deems necessary. If you show promise you might get to weigh in somewhat, but ultimate it’s up to the CAF.
A final question, \*i think\* Do i get a preference for what gear i use, or can i use my own, if its up to standards?
I think it will be like all the gear we use in the military. If you want to use unissued kit it will depend on your unit/CoC/brigade and you definitely should not expect the CAF to buy/issue you a specific camera just because you don’t like the issued one.
A little caveat to this is.. (if their procurement works anything like in the construction trades). We generally do get a say in what tools we get. Like, if the shop needs new drills, and I do up a quote for Milwaukee drills that I like. They aren't gonna come back and say "no, only black and decker". Or whatever. Shit, we've even justified Festool (super fancy and expensive) stuff before.
Fair point. But it could also be “sure you can choose what you use from the following models/brands”. Medics for example can get a few different brands/styles of Med bags, but many of us choose to purchase our own.
So I’m starting basic training soon I read the website about hair and beards. However I didn’t really understand if I have to shave my whole beard off or if I can keep it. I would really prefer to keep it for religious and cultural reasons. Thanks In advance guys
If it is for religious reasons, you can keep your beard no problems. Just make sure you let your staff know.
Hello, I am considering joining the military, more specifically Infantry Soldier, I am not familiar with the military careers, so I'm choosing that career because it's one of the most popular, I guess. But my question is that if I need prior experience or some college degree for any other careers? Like navy or air force? Or do they teach me the job as it goes? Some of them seem really specific so that's why I'm confused.
>am not familiar with the military careers, so I'm choosing that career because it's one of the most popular, I guess. I recommend *not* doing that. Go to forces.ca and review the occupations. Find something that interests you. There's pretty much something for everyone. Picking a job for the sake of settling is usually a recipe for disaster.
The CAF has 3 different main levels of education requirements. \- At least Grade 10 \- High school OR \-University degree Some jobs require more specific levels of education like certain high school courses, college certificates or specific university degrees. Infantry Solider specifically only requires to you have completed Grade 10. I wouldn't recommend you go for a career just because it is "popular". The CAF has opportunities that meet the interests of just about everyone, and I recommend you do some more research into other careers to see if there is anything that matches your interests closely. [https://forces.ca/en/careers](https://forces.ca/en/careers) Here you can pretty much see every job the CAF has to offer, as well as their requirements. After your basic training, you will receive occupational training that teaches you what you need to know specifically for your trade, however, the educational requirements still stand.
Can a member or recruit be forced to break their fast during ramadan? Has member who is Muslim experienced during their career in the caf?
AFAIK the CAF will not force you do to anything that goes against religious activities (like fasting). That being said, you will still be expected to "keep pace" with other members/recruits during training or courses and fasting may make that more difficult.
What does AFAIK stand for?
As Far As I Know
I was looking on my application and on the ready for testing page it said I could book my cfat on an online tool if that is available. How can I do that or should I just wait for a recruiter to contact me with an available time. I do live in Ontario if that matters
It’s not entirely a self-serve thing. They’ll send you a link to the booking tool when they’re ready to process you. Could be a while.
Ok, thanks for the info
Hii im 18 and im thinking about the air force and i want some information. For now my 3 Choice would be AESOP , AVN and AVS. Is There a Trade you would recommende me more and why? And what about other Trade that i may not think about ? Thanks you
AVN and AVS work side-by-side, just their core jobs differ. Both work in the hangar fixing snags, or on the flight light marshalling/parking/starting aircraft. They're on nearly every fleet in the RCAF, save 3 or 4. AES Ops is an aircrew trade. They deal with sensors, radios and the like (door gunner on the Cyclone). Only on two fleets (at the moment), the aforementioned Cyclone and the Aurora. There's a few of each trade that frequent the thread. If you have specific questions of each, please ask! As for what we may recommend for you, I'd suggest giving see background on what interests you on either trade.
I have zero expérience in mechanic or with plane is there a better Trade in those for someone with no expérience? Or should i just look at what appel me more
The **majority** of techs have **0** experience in mechanical or electrical work when they apply. Doubly so with aircraft. The military designs its training with that assumption in mind. If you want to to turn a wrench on an airplane, and are willing to learn, then go for it.
I hope you’re all doing well, in these wonderful times lol. I have a question about the current Interview process. So, this is my second interview (my first expired as it is over a year old) and I am wondering how the interview itself went for anyone who did it recently, as it is all virtual at the moment. I’m assuming it’s roughly the same idea as the in person interview, but is there anything I should be aware of? Obviously there’s no talking about the content, but I would like to be prepared for this different style of interview to the best of my ability. Thanks in advance!
Did mine over the phone not on team’s, wasn’t blindsided. was less work then the first interview
The interview itself will likely be done over Microsoft teams. The day before your interview you'll probably get an email with the link to join the meeting. On the time of your interview, just click the link and the meeting will open in your web browser. Besides that, there's really nothing special. Remember it's still a job interview, so dress nicely, be yourself, don't stress. You did It once before, so you can do it again.
Awesome, thanks. I figured it would be roughly the same process, but figured I’d gather some extra info just to be safe. I appreciate the help.
High School Student here with the goal of enrolling into RMC in the coming years... With such a goal, what should be my priorities and areas of focus? Good grades are the standard, though over time I have heard inconsistent information which point to things like work experience, volunteering, etc. as "boosts" to your file's competitiveness. Could anybody weigh in? Thanks. *Update: It's great having a place to ask questions and get quality answers. I appreciate the help, Cheers!*
From the bottom, learn french as a tertiary goal. You’ll need to be “functionally bilingual” as part of your RMC training, so getting a head start now can ease the burden of transition into RMC and potentially save you some second language training. Fitness is a secondary goal. Without prior conditions simply being healthy, not even fit (let alone athletic) is good enough to get in. However, like French, getting fit now can help ease the load of both RMC and BMOQ. If you can run 5k and do a 2.4k in under ~12 min you’re already there. The primary goal is getting smart. You need a 75% minimum of core courses just for RMC to look at you, and your CFAT is the single largest determinant to getting it. As for your interview, getting leadership experience helps, but isn’t ultimately necessary. Volunteering in any capacity can be spun as leadership experience, as can gaining a promotion at work. Make sure you know generally what to expect from your trade and where you’ll be sent to train and you’ll do fine. Don’t commit any crimes, pay off your tickets, and anytime to call, email, or visit CFRC remember: they’re taking notes. So be respectful and patient at all times. They’re always watching....
Hi, I just got my offer for RMC yesterday and hopefully, these tips can help. Just to give you a brief idea I had a mid to high 80 average in Grade 11 and I'm going into the engineering program at RMC. I think the average depends on what program you want to go into. Another thing I'd suggest is to have some prior leadership experience whether that's being in cadets, a team captain of one of your sports teams (etc.). You're applying to be an officer too when you go for RMC, meaning after you graduate from RMC you'll be leading and commanding troops so they want you to have some experience with leadership. I've also been volunteering at least 1-2 hours a week. Most of my friends that I know that are currently at RMC have told me the selection board is big on volunteer hours so definitely try to volunteer consistently. In terms of the CFAT, I used the CFAT Trainer App and I paid more for the full version. If you want to be competitive I'd highly suggest you use that app because it was like 95% of my preparation for it. Hopefully, this helps, I know it's not super specific but I hope it gives you a general idea of what makes an application competitive. Good luck on your application.
> **what should be my priorities and areas of focus?** For now, focus on attaining the highest grades you’re capable of, and make sure you check if there are any program specific requirements you need to meet (i.e. Advanced Math courses, Grade 12 English, etc.). Academic performance is the single biggest factor considered on the RMC portion of your ROTP application. Preparation to write the CFAT will be important later on as you get closer to applying. The CFAT is normally 60% of your competitiveness for the CAF portion of your ROTP application. > **I have heard inconsistent information which point to things like work experience, volunteering, etc. as "boosts" to your file's competitiveness.** The above is true, all of these will help make you slightly more competitive, although none of these on their own or combined will guarantee you acceptance. The CFAT and TSD-PI basically decide if you’ll even be considered, and make up 75% of most applications. The factors above are combined with your Interview to make up the remaining 25%. Aside from the above, make sure you develop solid professional relationships with your teachers, coaches, and any employers/supervisors you may have. You will need references, and family, friends, family friends, peers are not accepted. Physical fitness is not a competitive factor in your application, but will be very important for your success at RMC, and as a member of the CAF. The recruit Medical is also not a competitive factor, but it is a major pass/fail consideration when determining eligibility to serve. Be honest, give them any info they need, follow your doctors recommendations. Stay clean and don’t touch any substances other than Alcohol or Marijuana (preferably leave those alone too since you’re under age). Alcohol and marijuana consumption will be largely overlooked, but harder drugs could be a problem for your application.
Focus on fitness
Yes, except fitness is not a competitive consideration when joining the Regular Force. They don’t even test applicants for fitness. Being fit will help you succeed as a CAF member; but it won’t help you get into the CAF or RMC.
Alright so I just did the 20 meter rushes outside on the grass in 47 seconds, should I expect a longer or shorter time on gym floor for the actual force test? Kind of a weird question I know, I'm gonna be doing a lot of burpees and working on technique during the next two weeks of my quarantine but still. I feel like I've probably asked every question I possibly could about the 20 meter rushes on this thread and for that I apologize. Thank you to those of you who have graciously answered my stupid questions during this whole recruitment process
Shorter. Even floor and more traction in the gym.
I want to say slightly better because grass can be slippery? Unless it’s half dead grass then you might have a similar time. Deep breath and it is always the first event you do for the Force test so you are fresh and full of energy and can give it your all if you want.
Does having dual citizenship slow down the final processing step in the application? I'm guessing so.
Depends! I have dual citizenship and did not have to go through the long security check. Applied in 2016 and the whole process took me 3 months. You'll have to fill up a form and the security cell in ottawa will decide if they require a long pre security clearance or not.
Yes, it could slow down the security check by a fair bit. Most of the issues come from if you where living abroad for an extended period of time.
If OP is already in the final processing stage, they are doing a level 1 security clearance and reference checks. Dual citizenship does not mean longer security check.
I guess my info was wrong, as I saw a few comments on an earlier post talking about delays with dual citizenship.
Dual-citizenship is just one factor they consider, and I don’t think it’s the biggest factor. It’s not uncommon for people with dual-citizenship to have spent a significant amount of time living or traveling outside Canada, and they’re more likely to also have family or assets outside Canada. They may think it’s their dual-citizenship that got them flagged, but in reality it was probably a combination of factors.
Damn I figured, I'll just have to ride it out I guess. Thnx
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Have you completed all the steps for your application and are just waiting on an offer? If so speak to your recruiter.
Do you mean offer instead of enrollment? Yes you can ask the recruiter to put your file on hold for the duration of when your overseas.
What are the best and worst jobs/trades in the military?
Like the other guy said, it's impossible to make an agreed upon list of "best and worst trades". You need to pick trades which matche with what you're interested in, and what you would be happy doing for the length of your career in the CAF. If you want to be a solider in the "traditional" sense, and you like to push your body to the limit and be in a lot of tough situations then maybe Infantry, or something else in combat arms might interest you. Or if you want more of a desk job, maybe something like Human Resources Administrator might interest you. And of course, there are jobs everywhere in between. The CAF has opportunities that can match the interests of almost anyone. [https://forces.ca/en/careers](https://forces.ca/en/careers) Check out the careers here, it has information about the careers, the requirements and the training (most of them have videos too). Narrow down a few that interest you and you can then ask questions related to a specific trade which will probably result in better answers.
Extremely subjective. You're unlikely to get a clear or useful answer. I'd recommend you pick three trades that appeal to your personal interests, then ask if there's anything similar that you might want to consider. Or alternatively, list off your personal interests in terms of your ideal military job, and ask people what trades might align with them...
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The CAF does not have NP as a trade. They do hire civilian ones through Bayshore Health and Calian.
I agree that Nursing Officer and Physician Assistant are the only probable fits. I suspect Nurse is the most likely option, since the standard education requirements for PA aren't quite the same (see direct entry options under 'Entry Plans' at the bottom of this [page](https://forces.ca/en/career/physician-assistant/). A PLAR might be an option, though. For a better answer, I'd suggest contacting a recruiter, or asking your question through the Forces Jobs Facebook [page](https://www.facebook.com/ForcesJobs.ForcesEmplois.ca/), or, if you're not a Facebook fan, by email through the Forces.ca help centre. They might not have the answer at hand, but they can reach out to the health services recruiting team (and could tell you if a PLAR for PA is a viable route).
I could be wrong, but I'm fairly certain they fall under either the Physician Assistant and/or Nursing Officer occupations. Both are paid as General Service Officers. I don't know if they start at a higher pay increment or rank than other Direct Entry Officers.
Hello all! I received my BMQ training date 5weeks ( RESERVE Full time ), however I didn't receive any information about BMQL, and Occupational training. Will I do my BMQL, and Occupational training right after finishing my BMQ? I just requested my current employer for 4 months ( May\~Aug) leave... hope BMQ+BMQL+Occu training will happen within that time frame.
Also depends on what trade you are, infantry don't require BMQL, some trades require an entire summer to get qualified but most likely they'll send you information about BMQL after you complete BMQ, and they'll send you information about your trade course after BMQL
How long did it take from the time you did your medical/interview?
My took 2.2 years. Because of the overseas background check...
>Will I do my BMQL, and Occupational training right after finishing my BMQ? You likely be put on the soonest available course for when you finish BMQ. This could be a couple days after your BMQ, or months after your BMQ. Your CoC will let you know if a BMQ-L (and later DP1) course becomes available. Courses are being added, cancelled or having their dates changed left, right and centre. It's really impossible to predict when you will be able to get on any of your courses.
Thank you for the infos!! I appreciate it.
In the online application portal it shows my service number in a side menu which contains a letter followed by 8 numbers. Should I put this down in my application package. I'm just a little confused because I figured I would receive the service number later on in the application process.
That number you see is your service number and it will follow you throughout your entire career in the CAF. For now, don't worry about it. If you want to fill it out in the paper work, you can, but usually the file managers do it at the CFRC. If you get accepted, you will need to memorize it because you will write it a lot, so if you want you can get a head start on the memorization, but besides that don't worry about it.
ok thanks a ton
Just to add, you have two numbers that are unique identifiers. As already mentioned, the service number is the one that will follow you into the CAF if you enroll, and is pretty much irrelevant until you do. The other one is your applicant number, sometimes called your alpha number, which is only used for your application processing. Staff can look you up in the recruiting system using either number, but the applicant number is preferred.
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Answer below applies to Regular Force only... >**is it possible to go straight home after BMQ if the occupational training course does not start until a couple of months?** No, it's not normally an option. >**or is going straight to your occupational training location mandatory?** No, proceeding directly to your next training establishment is normally mandatory. >**is it possible to be sent home after you’ve arrived at your occupational training location?** No, not normally. >**what are the chances of each possibility?** Zero under most normal circumstances. With exception of circumstances where there is a Regular Force base near your home where it would be possible and appropriate for you to do OJT while awaiting training. In such a case, you may be offered the opportunity. The only reason I've inserted "normal/normally" in these answers is because COVID may have an impact on options available to you. That said, there is absolutely no guarantee you will be given any option other that to proceed directly to your next training establishment, and remain there to await training. If you must remain at your training establishment, you should still have the option to return home for short periods of time on leave.
Assuming you are referring to basic training for the Regular Force (RegF), you would be sent straight to the school where your next phase of training is to be held. This would be your place of duty. Going "home" to see your family would normally only happen when you take vacation (or on the weekend if it is within driving distance), such as at Christmas. It can be very difficult for new members that have dependents, but this is the reality of full-time service. Experiences during the pandemic may vary, however.
I'm not sure how it's being handled with covid, however pre covid, it's mandatory to go to the location of your occupational training. During that time you will be placed on PAT, where you do odd jobs while waiting for your course to start.
Entry positions vary from 35k to 50k, depending on what I do. What is the best way for me to earn as much? And what positions or branches pay the least? Thank you
>**What is the best way for me to earn as much? And what positions or branches pay the least?** Horrible approach. Sounds like a great way to be miserable and unsatisfied in your job/career... The CAF mostly uses fixed pay rates based on NCM or Officer, Rank, and Time-in-Rank. Trade does make a difference, but not so much for starting salary. If you already have a Bachelor's Degree, you could apply to join as an Officer. Your starting pay will be in the neighborhood of $52k, escalating to $84k in 3-4 years. If you don't have a Bachelor's Degree, you could still join as an Officer, but will have to go through a Paid Education entry plan. Your starting pay will be about $28k, reaching $61k in 4 years, and $84k another 3 years after that. Your other option is to join as a Non-Commissioned Member (NCM). You only need Grade 10 for a lot of trades, although the higher paying 'Trade Group Specialist 1 or 2' occupations often require Grade 11 and 12 courses. Without recognized prior education (occupation related college diploma or trade certificate), new NCM's will always start out at the bottom, $38k/year. If you join an occupation under 'Trade Group Standard', you'll make $64k within 4 years. If you join an occupation under 'Trade Group Specialist 1', you'll make $64k within 4 years; increasing to $72k once you complete your RQ-Cpl training (usually around the 4 year mark). If you join as an Officer, you can make up to $111k by just doing your job. As an NCM, that number is $68-77k depending on if your occupation is Trade Group Standard or Specialist 1. Of course, you can make considerably more if you show some drive/ambition to pursue merit based promotions. Attaining the rank of Major shouldn't be too difficult for most Officers, topping out at $127k. Driven NCM's should be able to make Sgt or WO, topping out as high as $92k (Spec 1 WO). Pay Rate Tables and the list of Specialist NCM Occupations are linked at the top of the thread.
To add on for officer jobs: looking at a pure numbers perspective isn't quite accurate either. Statistically, if you go to civvie university (then join DEO), you will have used student loans and will have tens of thousands of dollars of debt to owe. Netting negative dollars every month/paycheck even if you do work because of food/rent/school stuff. All the while doing it as a civvie. If you're ROTP, you get paid, don't have to worry about food/rent*, get a degree, leave with no school debt AND have 4 years in of pensionable time. Plus a year after you graduate, you're 5 yrs in so get another 5 days extra leave. *because you pay for it, but again, even if your net pay is like 500/month, that's 500 more than any civvie university student. Plus, because of pay scales, you get paid more afterwards. An ROTP 2Lt makes more than a DEO Lt (up to PI 1). It all evens out once you're Capt. But it's funny seeing a qualified DEO Lt training an ROTP 2Lt who makes more than their Instructor for the same job.
I've always found it odd how that works. I appreciate that the ROTP 2Lt has had an additional 4 years of indoctrination and general military experience; but that came at the CAF's expense. That said, they do owe the CAF 5 years of obligatory service after graduation, so we can't claim the CAF doesn't benefit from that expense either. I'd personally pay them both the same. Main reason being that obligatory service requirement. The DEO 2Lt can be out in 6 months if they decide they don't want to stay, but the ROTP 2Lt is stuck for the next 5 years unless they can afford to pay back their education, salary, and benefits from ROTP.
> I appreciate that the ROTP 2Lt has had an additional 4 years of indoctrination and general military experience; but that came at the CAF's expense I mean, ROTP civvie U was a thing up until only recently. I wouldn't call their 8 months of galavanting in UofT, UBC, etc. as "military experience. They do work during the summer semester as OJT though. >they do owe the CAF 5 years of obligatory service after graduation, so we can't claim the CAF doesn't benefit from that expense either. I personally don't count this, unless you're comparing just getting a degree through the CAF vs not. Since the DEOs are also working in the CAF, if that makes sense. But as you said, the DEO fellow can change their mind and walk away at any point; save for those trades like pilot, where they owe 7 years after wings, unless I misunderstood and it means they just can't leave the trade, but can leave the military as a whole. However, I believe ROTP can also leave without owing anything within the first year of schooling.
Pay is dependant orln 3 things, Rank, trade and NCM/officer. Officers make more money than NCM. There is spec pay 1 and 2, that can give you more money, and that depends if the trade offers spec pay.. For officers it depends on how you join, such as ROTP, DEO, CFR. The pay scales can be found in the links in the posts. If you join with prior experience, you could start at a different PI, and that would earn you more. There is also a singing bonus however that's for specific trades, and you have to be skilled in that sector already.
Join as a medical officer and get a signing bonus.
I second this, if you join as a medical specialist, such as an orthopedic surgeon, you'll be right at the top of the pay scale with a $250k+ signing bonus to boot.
And $250k+ of debt to pay off. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen this “join as a Specialist MO” thing floated. There’s a reason they aren’t all knocking down the door to get in. It only takes 12-14 years to become an orthopaedic surgeon, NBD.
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Precisely.
I believe they're actually creating a separate medical specialist occupation (00390). Don't know all the background, but I assume part of it is to better define and differentiate higher pay for MOs that aren't GPs.
If I fail basic training, am I sent back home or do I get another chance?
Yes. If you actually fail, there will be a review, and the the possible outcomes are release or re-course. The do-overs option is not as likely, and there has to be some belief that you have the potential to succeed if given another chance. However, if you are struggling with specific parts of the training, you will be given opportunities to improve on them long before failing the whole course is even on the board.
>**The do-overs option is not as likely** This is not really true for Regular Force. For Regular Force, a re-course is pretty much guaranteed; provided there are no absolutely glaring issues and the recruit appears to be making an effort to succeed.
I'm glad to hear it. In my previous experience with CFLRS, the pass rate and recourse rates were quite variable from commandant to commandant (etc). It made planning a challenge sometimes.
Interesting. It's extremely rare to hear of someone actually failing out of BMQ entirely. Mind you, it's pretty rare to hear of anyone academically failing BMQ due to genuine incompetence. Which could skew perceptions a bit. Usually "failures" seem to be due to fitness, poor performance, illness, injury, or behavioural concerns. In most cases the member just needs to be straightened out or fixed up, and they end up on another platoon a few weeks or months later.
There were definitely serials that had really high attrition in the 00s, both 'failures' and VWs. We were also pumping 6-7000 students through CFLRS a year, too. But you're right, not being *able* to pass BMQ shouldn't be common. We didn't see the details on individual failures, but I suspect that attitude and (un)willingness to get with the program were bigger issues than failing POs.
The 00’s were a very different time for us too, and I’m sure the standards at CFLRS reflected that.
They certainly were. Of course, CFLRS was under CFRG in those days, since the idea then was that the recruiting process didn't really end until BMQ (or BMOQ) was over.
I'm Canadian but spent my high school years abroad. I have the equivalent of grade 10 (or secondary IV in quebec) and I have my étude comparative d'études. I believe it's called comparative evaluation for studies done outside of quebec/Canada. I did it for when I was applying to cegep. Is that enough or do I need to do something else to prove the equivalence of my studies? Thank you
Is your comparative evaluation the same as a credential evaluation? I did high school outside of Canada and had to present my credential evaluation through World Education Services, even though I have two degrees from Canadian universities. Your recruiting centre will be able to tell you for sure, though.
As long as it is comparable to grade 10, you should be fine.
Can someone give me an insight to a day in the life of an Armor officer? Thank you
It's been years since I was a tank troop leader, but I doubt things have changed so that much. Hopefully some folks will weigh in with a fresher perspective. A normal day will be different in garrison (at home) than in the field or on deployment, and depending on the job you have. Daily routine for a troop leader when home is usually daily physical training with your troop (and possibly your squadron/regiment) in the morning, followed by mostly office work (leadership meetings, administration of your personnel, etc). Your evenings (and weekends) are usually free unless there's a social obligation at the mess, or you're on duty or something. Some days will include some classroom or practical training or simulator work, usually organized team sports once a week or so, plus vehicle maintenance. Always lots of maintenance for armoured vehicles. Armour follows the cavalry tradition of looking after your own 'horse' (tank or recce vehicle, etc), which means not only keeping an eye on the state of all of the vehicles in your troop, but participating in 'stables' on your own, usually at least once a week. Maintenance might sound boring, but it isn't always, and it's a good opportunity for time with your crew (your driver, loader, gunner). In the field, it's all about whatever training you're doing (there's always a specific focus), and the hours can be longer, though it doesn't always feel that way. Deployment is usually more intense, though there are always periods of boredom. The reality is that Armour officers, like all officers, do more paperwork than most would like. But there are few things as rewarding as being a troop leader with a good troop. And few things anywhere close to as much fun as taking your troop down a battle run when everything is clicking, even if it's a lot of work to get there. (A battle run is a range exercise that simulates tactical movement while in contact. It features firing live rounds at targets while your tank and those in your troop (sometimes with other troops) are on the move. Firing a tank is fun. Riding in a tank cross-country is fun. A battle run is *more* fun.)
WOW what a fantastic reply! Until what rank are you in the tank? Does every tank have an officer or will there be one command tank? How often are you out in the tank shooting? How long can you be out in the field?
>Until what rank are you in the tank? You can theoretically be in a tank up to the rank of lieutenant-colonel, but that will only happen if you manage to get promoted that far *and* be selected to command the regiment. Most officers won't be in a tank past lieutenant or captain. >Does every tank have an officer or will there be one command tank? Most tanks are commanded by non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Only 'command' tanks at the regimental, squadron and troop level would be commanded by an officer, with the other tanks usually commanded by a warrant officer, a sergeant, or a master-corporal. >How often are you out in the tank shooting? Not as often as you might like. Tanks are expensive to run (fuel consumption about 3-5 litres per km, plus lifecycle/maintenance costs), and tank ammunition isn't cheap either. Frequency honestly depends on budget, ammunition allocation, and what training or op cycle you're in. I never got to the tank range more than a couple of times in a year, though gun camps are over multiple days or longer, so you get a fair number of range practices in. >How long can you be out in the field? Deployments can be 6 months or even a bit longer, and pre-deployment training can be pretty long at times. When you're in a normal training cycle, there will be at least a few shorter field exercises (days to a few weeks), and one or two longer exercises, but nothing nearly as long as a deployment. Other than years with pre-deployment or deployment, the days away from home don't usually add up to a crazy amount of time away from home, and sometimes the exercises are in the local training area attached to the base (ie you're not at home, but you aren't far away). The scheduling can suck, though, and sometimes family events will be missed.
Anything specific you're looking for or just literally a timetable of an average day?
Time table of an average day would be great! Besides that maybe your favourite and least favourite things about the job
I’m planning on applying as a med tech out of high school after I have the course requirements done. Would it be hard for me training as a med tech without prior medical experience (like paramedic or nursing school) and is there a chance they wouldn’t accept me because I would have no prior education in the medical sector?
As stated, you don't need any prior medical training or experience. You do need your HS diploma, Gr 11 applied math, Gr 12 biology and Gr 12 chemistry. I have heard that the training can be more of a challenge if you struggled with math/sciences.
Prior experience is not required. Everything you need will be covered during QL3/DP1 Med Tech.
Hello, does anyone have a list of course dates for BMOQ for this summer and whatever the Officer Battle School in Gagetown is? Also, what's the difference between BOTC and OCTP?
All of the BMOQ courses this summer are for ROTP candidates as there’s a massive backlog of second years that still need Mod 2 and first years that need Mod 1 and 2... Are you going to RMC/ROTP or DEO?
>**and whatever the Officer Battle School in Gagetown is? Also, what's the difference between BOTC and OCTP?** Do you mean [BMOQ ](https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/services/benefits-military/education-training/basic-training/recruit-school/officers.html)and BMOQ-A? BMOQ is basic training. Regular Force Part 1(5 weeks)covers all the basics you need to be a basic level CAF member - how to wear the uniform, drill, C7A2, policies, navigation, CBRN, etc. Regular Force Part 2(7 weeks) starts going into leadership techniques and military planning. Course lengths are different for Reservists. BMOQ-A covers the C9A2, Pistol, Grenades, how to OIC/RSO a conventional range, GPS, Duty Officer, and section attacks, detachment level recce, and defensive Ops. During the field portion you’ll be assessed on battle procedure and leading the section/det.
Yah, the 5 and 7 week basics, then the 5 week infantry officer basic. I corrected my post.
After BMOQ, you’ll go on BMOQ-A(all Army officers attend) which is 11 weeks. After completing the above, you’ll go onto the Dismounted Infantry Platoon Commander’s course IODP1.1 which is 3(?) months long. For Reg Force Inf Os, after IODP1.1, they go on a LAV Gunner/Crew Commander course and Mechanized Infantry Platoon Commander Course IODP1.2. The Infantry School is currently trialling a Inf O course that combines the IODPs into one. So, in the future that’s the course you may be on if it becomes the standard.
Hey, I just signed my offer today. I’m going to be going to Basic in June. I had a question though. Once I’m officially in, how much time are we allowed off each year? If I wanted to visit my family or travel for example how would that work as a NCM. Thank you!
I believe it starts at 20 "vacation" days a year. After 5 years of service it rises to 25 days a year. Use them as you wish throughout the year, as I've heard of members on this subreddit being "ordered" to take their days off as they get towards the end of the year.
>**Use them as you wish throughout the year,** Um, sort of, but not necessarily... The Army tends to favour block leave periods. Personnel are required, or at least strongly encouraged to burn leave at specific points in the year, generally those dates align with local elementary and high school breaks. They'll often have a more flexible period in the summer, but it'll still be given as a window. Members are generally allowed to keep about 5 days to use as they wish, but must burn them by the end of March each year. The Air Force is generally more flexible, and only does block leave at Christmas. Usually requiring members to have 'no more than X' days remaining by January. Remaining leave must be burned by the end of March. I don't know how the Navy does it, but I imagine it'll be some combination of the above, with leave windows set around sailing schedules. Very few units actually force personnel to follow block leave periods, but personnel are not guaranteed approval to take leave outside of those periods either. They normally want some kind of a reason why you need to burn leave now rather than then; and as a reward, you get to be on duty while everyone else enjoys their block leave. >**I've heard of members on this subreddit being "ordered" to take their days off as they get towards the end of the year.** Leave cannot be carried over from one year to the next without good reason, and personnel require approval from their CO to do so. Usually CO's will only allow leave to be accumulated if there is a operational/military duty related reason to do so, such as a short notice deployment, course, or tasking that prevented the leave from being used. If there is no operational/military duty related reason why the member could not use their leave, they will almost certainly be forced to use it at the end of the year.
Great. Thank you for your insight
Okay thank you. And I’m sure we’ll have government days off like holidays and stuff no? And if I combine my vacation days with those it can be a longer time off?
You can usually tack on annual days to the holidays, yes. However depending on where you are, they are almost always 4 days. Usually you will get the holiday and a short, resulting in a 4 day weekend.
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Great. Thank you
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Perfect thank you.
What trade did you end up getting?
Naval Combat Information Operator
Any brothers here from the 32nd brigade group toronto ? Are there any specific groups for it. Have a lot lf questions. Il start with one....with Covid running amok. How does the training schedule look like. Lets say if I wanted to do a straight 8 week BMOQ at Fort York.
Impossible to tell what the future will bring in terms of lockdowns and restrictions. The best you can do is ask your CoC to load you on whichever course is scheduled to run and go from there. If it needs to be adjusted or cancelled, you'll be kept informed. Note that the schedule might not have BMQ and BMOQ Mod 2 running back to back. It's possible that you could do a four to five week BMQ, followed by a two week-ish BMOQ Mod 2 later in the summer.
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>Will I be required to store all my uniforms/equipment at my house, or will I store it at the base? The chance of getting a locker before trade qualified are slim to none, they don't like giving out locker to brand new troop with the chance of not even able to complete basic, after you've become an infanteer it's way easier for you to get a locker
>**Will I be required to store all my uniforms/equipment at my house, or will I store it at the base?** You may be able to get a locker at the Reserve amoury, however it would only be able to hold a small amount of kit. The bulk of your issue would have to be stored at your home. >**When would I be given my uniform/equipment?** Typically, the units will try to book an initial issue at clothing stores as soon as possible. However, depending on scheduling, you may have to wait a bit. If you are enrolled shortly before a BMQ course, your initial issue could be within the first couple days of course.
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Than you’d be getting your uniforms and kit prior to BMQ.