5 Steps To Become A Warrant Officer In The Army

Becoming a warrant officer in the Army is a prestigious and challenging career path that requires dedication, hard work, and a strong passion for serving one's country. Warrant officers are technical experts in their field, providing critical guidance and leadership to units and commanders. If you're considering a career as a warrant officer, here's a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

Understanding the Role of a Warrant Officer

Before we dive into the steps to become a warrant officer, it's essential to understand the role and responsibilities that come with this position. Warrant officers are highly specialized experts in their field, providing technical guidance and support to units and commanders. They are responsible for training, mentoring, and leading soldiers, as well as developing and implementing policies and procedures.

Warrant officers are not commissioned officers, but rather a separate rank structure that is unique to the Army. They are considered experts in their field and are often sought out for their technical expertise.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To become a warrant officer, you must meet the basic requirements set by the Army. These requirements include:

• Being a U.S. citizen
• Being between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
• Having a high school diploma or equivalent
• Scoring a minimum of 110 on the Army's Aptitude Test Battery (ATB)
• Having a minimum of 2 years of service in the Army (or other branches of the military)
• Being a sergeant (E-5) or above
• Having a secret security clearance

Step 2: Choose a Warrant Officer Military Occupational Specialty (MOS)

The Army offers over 40 different warrant officer military occupational specialties (MOS). These MOSs range from technical fields like aviation and engineering to administrative fields like human resources and finance. You'll need to choose a MOS that aligns with your skills, experience, and interests.

Some popular warrant officer MOSs include:

• 150A, Aviation Maintenance Technician
• 151A, Aviation Maintenance Officer
• 152A, Aviation Maintenance Supervisor
• 351A, Human Resources Officer
• 352A, Finance Officer

Step 3: Meet the Prerequisites for Your Chosen MOS

Once you've chosen your MOS, you'll need to meet the prerequisites for that specific field. These prerequisites may include:

• Having a certain number of years of experience in your field
• Completing specific training courses or certifications
• Having a certain level of education or degree
• Meeting specific physical or medical standards

For example, if you're applying for the 150A, Aviation Maintenance Technician MOS, you may need to have a minimum of 2 years of experience in aviation maintenance, complete a certification program, and meet specific physical standards.

Step 4: Apply for the Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS)

Once you've met the prerequisites for your chosen MOS, you can apply for the Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS). WOCS is a 6-week course that provides training in leadership, tactics, and technical skills.

To apply for WOCS, you'll need to:

• Meet with your unit's career counselor or warrant officer recruiter
• Complete the Warrant Officer Application Package
• Submit your application through the Army's Human Resources Command

Step 5: Complete WOCS and Commission as a Warrant Officer

Once you've been accepted into WOCS, you'll attend the 6-week course at Fort Rucker, Alabama. During WOCS, you'll receive training in leadership, tactics, and technical skills.

After completing WOCS, you'll be commissioned as a warrant officer and receive your first assignment. As a newly commissioned warrant officer, you'll be expected to lead and train soldiers, as well as provide technical expertise to your unit.

Gallery of Warrant Officer Images

Warrant Officer Image Gallery

Becoming a warrant officer in the Army requires dedication, hard work, and a strong passion for serving one's country. By following these 5 steps, you can embark on a challenging and rewarding career as a warrant officer. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and always strive for excellence in your career.