JOB TRAINING

Like the other components of the United States Armed Forces, training received through the Army National Guard is administered in several steps. Some of the training is conducted at active Army installations while other training is conducted at National Guard training centers at armories during monthly weekend training assemblies.

Basic Training

Army National Guard members attend the same basic training courses as the active Army. Currently, Basic Training lasts 9 weeks. It is conducted at various active Army installations throughout the country. During Basic Training, the National Guard member will gain the discipline, knowledge, physical conditioning, and pride necessary to serve as a member of the Army National Guard.

Advanced Individual Training

Advanced Individual Training (AIT) prepares Army National Guard members to perform the specific job for which they enlisted. This training lasts from 8 to 26 weeks, or longer in the case of some medical specialties. The training is conducted both in the classroom and on-the-job. As much as possible, soldiers are given "hands-on" training on the equipment they will use while serving in the National Guard.

Specialized Training

Some occupations within the Army National Guard require specialized training. Usually this training is conducted right after completion of AIT. Examples of this training include parachute and diver training.

Sustainment Training

Once the National Guard member returns home and rejoins his or her unit, training continues. This training includes performing tasks in the chosen occupation during weekend training assemblies and during Annual Training (AT). Also, continuous training is conducted through correspondence courses and attendance at formal schools.

Leadership Development Training

Training provided by the Army National Guard goes well beyond that required to train an individual to perform a specific job. Through Leadership Development Training, the National Guard offers members the opportunity to acquire leadership skills and prepare them for future advancement within the Army National Guard. These same skills available to members through military training have application within an individual's chosen civilian career.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 1-800-GO-GUARD