I'm curious about what a supply job in the military typically involves. What responsibilities can I expect, and are there any specific qualifications or training I should pursue while still in high school?
One of the primary responsibilities of a military supply job, like a Logistics Specialist or a Supply Specialist, revolves around managing inventories of equipment and supplies. In such a role, you'd be responsible for tracking, ordering, storing, and distributing supplies, which can range from clothing and food to ammunition and vehicle parts.
Your tasks might include maintaining automated supply systems for accountability with using unit computers to input data, scheduling and performing preventive and organizational maintenance on weapons, managing the issuance of classified equipment and supplies, and ensuring the proper disposal of hazardous waste material. You could also expect to handle shipping, receiving, storing, and issuing of equipment, clothing, and supplies.
As training for a military supply role starts in the military itself via an Advanced Individual Training or A-School, specific high school qualifications aren't strictly necessary. However, certain skills and experiences could make you a stronger candidate.
You might find it helpful to take courses that improve your organizational and problem-solving abilities – this could include mathematics, business, or computer science classes. It would also be beneficial to gain experience with software for supply chain management or inventory control. This could be through part-time jobs, internships, or even school clubs that involve inventory management (like a school store).
You should also focus on physical fitness and leadership skills, as those are emphasized in all military roles. Participation in sports, fitness clubs, JROTC, or leadership roles in extracurricular activities can help showcase these traits. Remember, the military values discipline, punctuality, responsibility, and teamwork.
It doesn't hurt to gain a general understanding of military structure and ranks, and a basic familiarity with military equipment could also be beneficial. However, the in-depth training you'll receive in the military should prepare you for your particular supply role. You'll be taught everything you need to know. Remember, the best thing you can do now is to complete high school with the highest grades possible and then speak to a military recruiter for more specific guidance related to your interests and abilities.
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