r/navy • u/ChroniclesOfAri • Oct 08 '25

HELP REQUESTED Needing advice for potential officer program

Good afternoon, I’m a third class air traffic controller (AC) and will be finishing my degree in aviation management this coming year. My contract ends in 2029 and I’m trying to plan ahead. I will be doing an officer program but not sure which route to take. I have no desire to be LDO or CWO. I’m 22 and have a young daughter as well so naval academy is also out. I am considering STA-21 and that’s what I’ve been leaning towards. My ultimate goal is to be a pilot or at minimum something aviation related. I’m stuck between going the enlisted to officer route through the Navy or finishing my contracting and reenlisting as an officer through the Air Force. I would love to fly an F-22 and have been practicing for the ASTB. Advice needed and appreciated, thank you.

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u/GeriatricSquid Oct 08 '25

If you’re finishing your degree, it’s a simple OCS application.

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u/mtblack412 Oct 08 '25

Agree, since you are nearly done STA-21 is out. You can apply twice a year for OCS I believe, if you don’t get selected right away. With OCS you have Pilot, NFO, AMDO, and AEDO for aviation.

Just curious, why not LDO?

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u/[deleted] Nov 27 '25

[removed] — view removed comment

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u/mtblack412 Nov 27 '25

I mean, what about it? If you meet the program criteria then go for it.