Military Branch for R&D - Suggestions?

Hey guys, I'm thinking about joining the military straight out of high school, mainly for exposure to research and development. I've always had a knack for innovation and coming up with new ideas. Any thoughts on which military branch I should consider for maximizing my R&D experience?

If it's research and development you're interested in, you might want to look into the Air Force, especially now with the emerging Space Force branch, which has a heavy focus on scientific and technological advancements. In fact, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) does extensive work in areas such as aeronautics, electronics, and materials.

Also, the Navy has the Office of Naval Research (ONR) which is dedicated to technological advancement in navigation, energy production, and warfare systems to name just a few.

But remember, it's not so much about the branch as it is about the specific job you receive within that branch. Each branch has a variety of job fields, many of which aren't specific to any one branch. So, check out the specific job fields, like chemical specialist in the Army or avionics technician in the Air Force, and see which ones align with your interests and long-term goals.

You should also consider if you're open to commissioning as an officer after getting a degree, as officers often have more opportunities in terms of leadership and management, including in R&D fields.

Remember, joining the military is a big commitment, and should not be taken lightly. Be sure to seek advice from various sources – current and former military members, ROTC instructors, recruiters, and your school counselor. And try to get a sense of the day-to-day life in the military to make sure it's a good fit for you. Good luck!