Any advice for an OCDT headed to OJT?

[cameron_highlander]

I thought I'd post this here, if it is in the wrong place, mods please move it as you see fit.

Basically, I'll be heading up to CFB Petawawa during my spring break to do some OJT. I'll be in the field for the better part of my time there, shadowing a junior officer.

What I'm looking for is just advice on Pet, do's and dont's of the base (every one has their little quirks etc), and any 'field' advice that you would give a 78U Officer Cadet before he heads out to his first 'real' exercise (what I did on IAP and BMQ dosen't count).

Thanks all. PM me if you have any specific questions re: what I'll be doing.

Cheers 

 

[Michael OLeary]

Don't focus too much on the 'mechanics' of what he does, you'll learn that as you go through your training.  Take a step back and watch the interactions between the rank levels, upwards and downwards.

Note the techinical things that do catch your attention. Keep a running list of things for future reading and study.  And then note the things you really didn't like about the job - and study them just as diligently to make sure you can do them right the first time so they won't haunt you when you have to get them done.

 

[TangoTwoBravo]

If you are shadowing a junior officer for a week it sounds like you are doing "contact training."  This subbie should basically show you the ropes and try to give you insights into life as a junior officer at a Regt.  Hopefully he will take you around everywhere.  Take advantage of the opportunity. 

Petawawa is a large base but it is not a training base.  OCdts are fairly rare critters there, so you may be an object of curiosity (just hope they don't call animal control).  If you get to the mess have fun, but remember that people will notice and remember you.  The subbies that live there have earned their place there and are part of the family.  I have seen OCdts on OJT and visiting for mess diners try to behave as if they were a subbie of the regiment.  This can lead to long-lasting trouble.

If you are placed in a section for a couple of days to find out about life as a soldier then go in with humour and humility.  If you have a good attitude and can take ribbing then it can be an excellent opportunity to see your future role from a different perspective.  You will probably learn more from that!

Have fun,

2B

 

[pbi]

Great advice from both Mike and 2B. Pay particular attentoin to what the WOs and NCOs do and say, and listen to any advice they offer. Your ability to  build  a solid working relationship with your NCMs can make or break your time in regimental duty, shouldy you be fortunate enough to earn the privelige of command. Good luck.

Cheers

 

[a78jumper]

Keep your eyes open, ears receptive and for the most part yer mouth shut. You might keep a list of things that reqr additional questioning at an appropriate time from an appropriate person. Most of all, have fun.

 

[SHELLDRAKE!!]

Take lots of input from the senior Cpl's/Mcpl's and senior NCO's. If they see you are willing to listen, they won't steer you wrong as one day they may be working for you. Junior and Senior NCO's hate the persona of those that have a few months in and believe all NCO's are beneath them. In my experience the best officers were those that took advice and then made informed decisions until they themselves gained enough experience.Good luck.