Good day,
I made a big decision this week to accept my offer for NCSE officer at the age of 30. I am doing very well in my current career, making good money and progressing quickly. However, for me, this is a once in a life time opportunity and now is always better than later for making a positive career change. So I will be quitting my job for what I am confident will throw years of fulfilling challenges my way. I have spent a lot of time researching this trade; the community here has been extremely helpful. I have dedicated many days to driving hundreds of km's to my nearest recruitment centre to listen to the recruiters' and career advisors' experiences.
I understand that laziness is not tolerated here so hear me when I say, I have searched far and wide, as far as reading several issues of Maritime Engineering Journals, to get a better sense of what I am getting myself into. I apolgize in advance, if the insight I am looking for is hidden somewhere in the archives of this forum.
I can't help but feel uneasy joining at the age of 30, knowing there will be NCSE's, my age with 6-7 years of experience already.
So my questions are simple: Does the Navy play favourites when considering RMC graduates over DEO's for available positions? A senior career advisor told me that RMC graduates have the benefit of having a network, and have an advantage. Is it unreasonable for an NCSE starting their career at the age of 30, to rise above the rank of Lt(N) in the next 30 years of their career? The same career advisor told me that I would have to "walk on water" if I were to ever achieve rank of Captain(N). I am of the understanding that senior officer ranks are difficult to achieve, but now I am starting to question whether it is even possible for a late-joiner DEO to do so. This being a huge life changing commitment, I am curious, what realistic opportunities there are in the private sector for NCSE's that decide to leave the Navy (your first hand experience and knowledge here would be appreciated). I have been told, by an ex-Navy member that was stationed on HMCS Kootenay, that NCSE's are basically useless in the civilian world; again not something you want to hear shortly after signing an offer. I was also curious, what happens when you reach the maximum number of pay increments for a given rank, say Lt(N). I believe I read somewhere on this forum that you simply stop getting incremental raises, unless of course you get promoted.
Your answers, comments and insights are welcome. I am sure I may have more questions to come at some point.
I am very humbled and proud to be a part of this all. Can't wait to get started and find out what I'm really made of.
Cheers. 8)