Military Workers, Officers

To enter the armed forces as an officer, you must attend one of the four service academies: the U.S. Military Academy (for the Army), the U.S. Naval Academy (for the Navy and the Marines), the U.S. Air Force Academy (for the Air Force), or the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (for the Coast Guard); enroll in the Reserve Officers Training Corps; or enroll in Officer Candidate School or Officer Training School.

Anyone entering the military should be prepared for a regimented lifestyle. Successful military officers have management and leadership skills, communicate clearly and effectively, and have expertise in the occupation in which they work. They are quick thinkers, able to effectively and efficiently solve problems as they arise. They are also adaptable to changing situations. The job can require relocating to different parts of the country or world, so a flexible attitude is also required. Officers are always training and learning new skills as they advance through the ranks.