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SNFO to SNA

JBM

JBM

Back in the Fleet!
None
I have read if a SNFO places in the top 10% of their API class they can become a SNA. However the post I read on this was over 2 years old. I was wondering if this is still the case.
 
Doesnt it depend on slots available and needs instead of the top x% getting to do what they want?
 
We had a Navy guy in my API class (just about a month ago) who was able to do it. I don't know the circumstances behind it, but I know it was due to him being at the top of the class. So ... its possible.
 
devil_dog said:
We had a Navy guy in my API class (just about a month ago) who was able to do it. I don't know the circumstances behind it, but I know it was due to him being at the top of the class. So ... its possible.
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There is your recency answer. It is also true that it depends on whether they need someone at that time to take a SNA spot that opened up. Some SNA would have to have DORed or gone NPQ (NAMI whammy) and they need to replace him to keep the pilot end strength up. No guarantee.
 
For the most part right now, the skipper of API/schools has a policy that a snfo can swap to sna if they're in the top 10%. If not, it's pretty much impossible to get sna. It might change with a new CO, but that's how it is right now

Had a guy when I went through API who wanted sna and was, mathematically, in the top 11% (yes, 11%). The guy who was #1 was also a snfo but was too old to get a waiver for sna, so the guy who wanted it, who even had recommendations from two O-6's to switch to sna, didn't get it even though the dude in the top 10% didn't want it.

Moral of the story? Be #1 and you'll probably get what you want.
 
Put in a request if it is what you want, even if you're not in the top 10% or the last you heard the Navy wasn't taking any. The worst that will happen is the answer will be "no."
 
Also, if I'm not mistaken, you have to be physically qualified to switch. So even if you're #1 in API but have vision worse than 20/40 you still can't switch - or will they allow it? My understanding was that in order to switch you must be in the to 10% and meet all the same qualifications as SNA applicants.
 
I am physically qualified for both NFO and Pilot, but my USNA OOM was not quite where it needed to be to get a pilot billet.

Will my degree in Aerospace engineering make API any easier?
 
JBM said:
I am physically qualified for both NFO and Pilot, but my USNA OOM was not quite where it needed to be to get a pilot billet.

Will my degree in Aerospace engineering make API any easier?
Click to expand...

Short answer: NO.

Long answer: API is designed to teach the very basics of aerodynamics, aircraft structure and engine theory to someone who doesn't know their ass from the front end of an airplane. From what I've seen, engineers tend to overthing the subject matter presented in API. API is more an exercise in time management and your ability to retain lots of info in a short amount of time... which is the way the rest of the program works.

Here's another piece of advice for you: Not trying to be an ass or anything like that, but if you don't get the SNA slot out of API, don't go into primary with a chip on your shoulder. It will hurt if you do, and you won't make it through the program. I see it this way: be happy you get to fly and wear green pajamas to work. Anyday you can wear a flightsuit to work and strap on a jet is shaping up to be a good day. Regardless if you're going for two anchors or one. Bottom line is you're an SNFO right now. Don't develop an identity crisis. (Smileys in effect...)

That having been said, good luck in API and I hope the switch works out for you.

Cheers,
Bubba
 
isn't there a program in the fleet for NFO to convert into pilot after a certain amount of flight hours and rank?
 
valion_pride said:
isn't there a program in the fleet for NFO to convert into pilot after a certain amount of flight hours and rank?
Click to expand...

Yes, there is a transition program, and the number of selectees every year can be counted on one hand.

Of course, I don't see any reason to look into said program. Everyone knows we get two anchors because we're twice as awesome. 8-)
 
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