Intro
Embark on a challenging and rewarding career as a USCG Boatswain Mate. Discover the top 5 ways to become a respected leader on the water, mastering deck maintenance, navigation, and communication skills. Learn about Boatswain Mate duties, training requirements, and advancement opportunities in the US Coast Guard.
Becoming a United States Coast Guard (USCG) Boatswain's Mate (BM) is a challenging and rewarding career path that requires a combination of technical expertise, physical fitness, and leadership skills. As a BM, you will be responsible for deck maintenance, navigation, and supervising other crew members. Here are five ways to become a USCG Boatswain's Mate:
Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a USCG Boatswain's Mate, you must meet the basic requirements, which include:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being between the ages of 17 and 27 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Passing a physical fitness test
- Passing a background check
- Having a valid driver's license
Enlist in the Coast Guard
The first step to becoming a USCG Boatswain's Mate is to enlist in the Coast Guard. You can do this by visiting a local recruiter or applying online. Once you have enlisted, you will attend Basic Training (also known as "boot camp") where you will learn the basics of Coast Guard life and receive training in areas such as first aid, firefighting, and seamanship.
Attend Boatswain's Mate "A" School
After completing Basic Training, you will attend Boatswain's Mate "A" School, which is located in Yorktown, Virginia. At "A" School, you will receive training in areas such as deck maintenance, navigation, and leadership. The school is approximately 14 weeks long and is designed to give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Boatswain's Mate.
Gain Experience and Complete Advanced Training
After completing "A" School, you will be assigned to a Coast Guard vessel or shore unit where you will gain experience and complete advanced training. This training may include courses such as leadership, navigation, and engineering. As you gain experience and complete advanced training, you will be eligible for advancement to higher ranks and greater responsibilities.
Consider Officer Candidate School
If you are interested in becoming a commissioned officer in the Coast Guard, you may want to consider attending Officer Candidate School (OCS). OCS is a 17-week course that is designed to give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed as a Coast Guard officer. To be eligible for OCS, you must have a bachelor's degree and meet other requirements.
Life as a Boatswain's Mate
As a Boatswain's Mate, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:
- Maintaining the deck and superstructure of the vessel
- Operating and maintaining deck equipment such as winches and cranes
- Supervising other crew members
- Assisting with navigation and piloting the vessel
- Participating in search and rescue operations
Gallery of Boatswain's Mate Images
Boatswain's Mate Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Boatswain's Mate in the Coast Guard?
+A Boatswain's Mate is responsible for maintaining the deck and superstructure of the vessel, operating and maintaining deck equipment, supervising other crew members, and assisting with navigation and piloting the vessel.
How do I become a Boatswain's Mate in the Coast Guard?
+To become a Boatswain's Mate, you must meet the basic requirements, enlist in the Coast Guard, attend Boatswain's Mate "A" School, and gain experience and complete advanced training.
What kind of training do Boatswain's Mates receive?
+Boatswain's Mates receive training in areas such as deck maintenance, navigation, and leadership. They also receive training in specialized areas such as engineering and search and rescue operations.
Next Steps
If you are interested in becoming a USCG Boatswain's Mate, we encourage you to take the next step and learn more about this rewarding career path. Visit the Coast Guard's website to learn more about the requirements and opportunities available to you.