Infantry to Military Intelligence Transition?

I'm thinking about joining the infantry out of high school but I'm also interested in the military intelligence branch. Is it possible for infantry personnel to move into military intelligence roles later on?

Absolutely, it's feasible for infantry personnel to transition into military intelligence within the U.S. military. However, this largely depends on several factors such as your level of education, your Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) scores, and the needs and vacancies in the intelligence field.

In most cases, moving from infantry to a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in Military Intelligence will require a reclass (reclassification), wherein you apply to change your MOS. This usually happens after you've fulfilled your initial commitment to the infantry. The process can take quite some time, often several months to a year, and often involves additional training and schooling specific to the intelligence field.

Also worth mentioning is that to work in military intelligence, a security clearance is typically required. This usually involves a comprehensive background check, so clean records and good conduct are a must.

Always ensure to get proper counseling and advice from your unit's career counselor or someone in your chain of command you trust. Keep in mind, these potential position moves should align not just with your strengths, but also with your long-term career goals.