Although the economy in the United States has dramatically improved since the Great Recession of 2008-2009, finding and landing jobs can still be a difficult proposition. Luckily for Sailors serving as Machinery Repairmen (MR), the Navy’s participation in the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) gives them the chance to apprentice in a field related to their rating, earning a valuable certification that could be invaluable to them should they seek employment following their Naval career.
By enrolling in USMAP and documenting their work, Machinery Repairmen can receive credit for on-the-job training as they do the work they would be doing anyway. For every 2,000 hours that they work, MR Sailors can receive almost 150 hours of structured, formal training that is also documented. With no off-duty hours required to take part in the apprenticeship program and no fees for participation, the only real hurdles are taking the time to record the work that’s being done and setting aside blocks of time for the formal training sessions.
Machinery Repairmen can apprentice in four fields that offer certifications in civilian employment: Two types of machinists, locksmith, and pump repairer. Both the machinists and locksmith certifications require 8,000 hours of work; Sailors typically log about 2,000 hours per year. The pump repairer certification is slightly less demanding, with a minimum of 6,000 hours of on-the-job training. Because USMAP is coordinating its training with the various civilian certifying bodies, the certifications are beyond reproach.
Last but certainly not least, both employers and Naval superiors are usually impressed when they see Sailors go the extra mile to ensure they are making the most of the opportunities that are before them. Whether you seek to go for Chief status in the Navy or step into a high-paying job in the civilian sector when your Navy days have ended, USMAP has the tools you need to achieve your goal.
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