What military jobs are available in the Army National Guard?

I'm thinking of joining the Army National Guard after high school and want to know more about the jobs available. What career paths exist in the Guard, and how do they compare to active-duty Army roles?

Joining the Army National Guard is indeed a significant decision and can open up numerous career paths. The National Guard offers over 150 roles, known as Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), in fields like combat, administration, healthcare, transportation, and many more.

In combat roles, you can serve as an infantryman, a cavalry scout, or a cannon crew member. For those interested in the medical field, roles such as combat medic, dental specialist, and nutrition care specialist exist. In administration, there are specialties like human resources specialist, financial management technician, and paralegal specialist.

Notably, the execution of these roles in the Guard differs somewhat from active-duty Army roles. Unlike the active-duty Army, where soldiers serve full-time, the Army National Guard is mainly part-time. Typically, Guard members participate in a weekend drill each month and a two-week training each year.

However, one of the unique advantages of serving in the Guard is its dual state-federal nature. While you could be federally mobilized for international combat or peacekeeping missions, your services could also be required at home during times of state emergencies like natural disasters or civil unrest. In many ways, these service opportunities provide a unique blend of military service and community engagement, which is a defining characteristic of the National Guard's mission.

When considering a particular MOS, it's important to think about how it might align with your personal and professional goals after your military service. Many of the skills and experiences gained in these National Guard roles are highly transferable and can lead to successful careers in the civilian sector.

Remember, your choice on the MOS will also be influenced by the results of your Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which determines the kinds of roles for which you're eligible in the Guard.

Lastly, while serving in the Guard, you'll also have the opportunity to further your education through tuition assistance programs and the GI Bill, which can be used for college tuition, vocational training, or certification programs. Combining military service with civilian career advancement or education can be a practical and rewarding path for many.