Tech / Communications
Watchful for the Country
Knowledge is power, and the Guard relies on an advanced communication network to get it—and protect it. From Soldiers on the ground to command centers to attack helicopters, technical experts make communication possible—and global.
Information technology (IT) and networking specialists maintain devices, troubleshoot malfunctions and run network facilities. The Guard trains these Soldiers in those vital skills, which are more than tactical—they’re also marketable to civilian employers in this Information Age.
Job training for Soldiers in the Signal career field consists of ten weeks of Basic Combat Training plus 7-14 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT).
Military Occupational Specialties
25B Information Technology Specialist
Computers are an important part of every division of the military, and Information Technology (IT) Specialists have the responsibility of maintaining military computer systems and operations. IT Specialists’ duties include installing and configuring networks, hardware and software, and providing administration services such as passwords, electronic mail accounts and security. They also assist in the design, preparation, editing and testing of computer and system programs.
25C Radio Operator/Maintainer
As part of one of the largest ground forces in the world, the Guard communication maintenance team assures proper transmission of information by making sure that all communications equipment is in top working order. Radio Operator/Maintainers are primarily responsible for all maintenance checks and services on assigned radio communication equipment, allowing the Army to track and direct troop movements.
25L Cable Systems Installer/Maintainer
The Guard communication maintenance team assures proper transmission of information by making sure that all communications equipment is in top working order. Cable Systems Installer/Maintainers are primarily responsible for installing, operating and performing maintenance on cable and wire communications systems, communication security devices and associated equipment, including communications and electric cables between utility poles.
25M Multimedia Illustrator
Multimedia illustrators are primarily responsible for operating multimedia-imaging equipment in order to produce visual displays and documents. They produce graphic artwork that is used in Army publications, signs, charts, posters, television and motion picture productions.
25N Nodal Network Systems Operator/Maintainer
With communication being such an integral and critical part of the Army, Nodal Network Systems Operator/Maintainers are responsible for making sure that the lines of communication are always up and running. They install, operate, maintain and repair strategic and tactical nodal systems, and perform field level maintenance on electronic nodal assemblages, combat net radios and ancillary communications equipment.
25Q Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator/Maintainer
A strong communication network is critical to the Army’s success. Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator/Maintainers work directly on communication devices and equipment that communicate through more than one channel. They are responsible for installation, repair, operation and maintenance of these devices, antennae and associated equipment.
25S Satellite Communications Systems Operator/Maintainer
The Army’s success depends on a strong communications network. Satellite Communications Systems Operator/Maintainers work directly on multi-channel satellite communications systems and networks. They also install, operate and maintain ground terminals, communication security (COMSEC) devices and associated equipment.
25U Signal Support Systems Specialist
As part of the Guard communication maintenance team, Signal Support Systems Specialists are primarily responsible for working with battlefield signal support systems. Signal Support Systems Specialists install and maintain signal support systems and terminal devices, including radio, wire and battlefield automated systems. They also train signal equipment users and provide technical assistance.
Signal Corps
Albert James Myer, an Army doctor, first conceived the idea of a separate, trained professional military signal service. He proposed that the Army use his visual communications system called “wigwag” while serving as a medical officer in Texas in 1856. When the Army adopted his system June 21, 1860, the Signal Corps was born.
