Top 10 National Guard Certifications

Certifications are important for National Guard members in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and training that employers look for. Certification demonstrates to potential employers the individual has achieved a specific level of skill, knowledge, and/or experience in their field. It also shows an employer that the individual is willing to invest time and money into their professional development. In addition, certifications can help individuals find better paying jobs or promotions. Finally, certifications can help guard members stand out from other applicants by showing they have specialized skills and knowledge that can be useful to an organization.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for National Guards and explain how they can benefit a National Guard's career.

What are National Guard Certifications?

National Guard certification is a process that recognizes the skills and qualifications of members of the United States National Guard. The certification process is designed to help National Guard members become more competitive in the job market, as well as to ensure they are well-prepared to respond to national emergencies.

The certification process provides National Guard members with an official document that lists their areas of expertise, such as military operations, human resources management, or logistics planning. It also serves as an endorsement of the service member’s commitment to duty and a recognition of their successful completion of specialized training programs.

Having a National Guard certification can be beneficial for service members looking for civilian employment after leaving the military. Many employers value the unique skillset and dedication that come with having served in the National Guard and may be more likely to hire someone with this type of certification over someone without it. Additionally, some companies offer special hiring preferences for former National Guard members who have obtained their certification.

Having a National Guard certification can also help current service members by providing them with career advancement opportunities within their own unit or in other branches of the military. In addition, having a certification demonstrates that they are knowledgeable about their chosen field and have achieved a certain level of expertise in it. This can open up additional career opportunities both inside and outside of the military, including promotions or higher salaries.

Pro tip: Make sure to stay up-to-date on the National Guard's certification requirements, as they are subject to change at any time. Additionally, it is important to understand the specific requirements for each specialty or job within the National Guard before beginning the process of certification.

Related: What does a National Guard do?

Top 10 National Guard Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to National Guards today.

1. Combat Arms Qualification

Combat Arms Qualification (CAQ) is a certification program designed to ensure that military personnel are properly trained and qualified in the use of small arms weapons. It is administered by the United States Army and Marine Corps, and is required for all personnel who will be using or carrying firearms while on active duty.

The CAQ consists of two parts: an online course and a live-fire qualification range. The online course includes instruction on safety, marksmanship fundamentals, weapons handling, and combat tactics. This course must be completed prior to attending the live-fire qualification range.

At the live-fire qualification range, personnel must demonstrate their proficiency with their assigned weapon by engaging targets at various distances under timed conditions. The time limit varies depending on the weapon being used, but typically ranges from one to three minutes for each target. Personnel must achieve a minimum score in order to pass the qualification test.

The cost of Combat Arms Qualification varies depending on the branch of service and location of training. Generally speaking, it costs around $100-$200 per person for both parts of the certification process.

In total, it usually takes between one and two days to complete Combat Arms Qualification training depending on the size of the group receiving instruction and other factors such as weather or equipment availability.

2. Air Assault School

Air Assault School is a two-week course designed to train Soldiers in the skills required to perform air assault operations. It covers the basics of rappelling, sling load operations, and aircraft familiarization. The school also focuses on developing leadership skills and physical fitness.

The course is open to all branches of the military, but only active duty U.S. Army personnel are eligible for graduation and award of the Air Assault Badge. To be eligible for Air Assault School, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having a minimum score on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT), passing an Army Flight Aptitude Test (AFAT) and having no physical limitations that would prevent them from completing the course.

The cost of Air Assault School varies depending on location and other factors, but generally ranges from $100-$200 per person.

Air Assault School typically takes two weeks to complete; however, some locations may offer accelerated courses that can be completed in as little as one week.

3. Field Artillery Basic Officer Leadership Course

Field Artillery Basic Officer Leadership Course (BOLC) is a nine-week course designed to train and prepare newly commissioned Field Artillery Officers in the Army. The course provides the officer with the basic knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary to lead and manage soldiers in a field artillery unit. It covers topics such as leadership, operations, tactics, maintenance, logistics, communications, and training.

The BOLC is typically conducted at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. It takes nine weeks to complete the course. To get into the BOLC program, you must have been commissioned as an officer in either the Active Duty or Reserve components of the U.S. Army. You must also meet all physical requirements for active duty service and be able to pass all required tests prior to attending the course.

The cost of attending the BOLC depends on your status as an Active Duty or Reserve component officer. For Active Duty officers, tuition is covered by the Army; however there may be additional costs associated with travel and lodging during your stay at Fort Sill. For Reserve component officers, tuition is paid for by your respective branch of service; however you may also incur additional costs associated with travel and lodging during your stay at Fort Sill.

4. Combat Lifesaver Course

The Combat Lifesaver Course (CLC) is a comprehensive training program designed to provide soldiers with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide basic medical care in combat situations. The course is designed to bridge the gap between first aid and medical care given by medics or corpsmen. It is taught over a two-day period and consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on practical exercises.

The CLC covers topics such as patient assessment, airway management, wound treatment, hemorrhage control, shock management, splinting techniques, heat injury prevention, and environmental injuries. Upon successful completion of the course, students are awarded a Combat Lifesaver Certificate.

To obtain the CLC certification, individuals must be active duty personnel or members of the National Guard/Reserve who are currently assigned to an Army unit or organization. The course is available through many military installations around the world and can also be taken online through select providers. Depending on where you take the course, it may take up to two days for completion.

The cost of taking the CLC varies depending on where you take it; however, most courses cost around $100-$200 per student.

5. Military Police Basic Officer Leadership Course

Military Police Basic Officer Leadership Course (MPBOLC) is a five-week course designed to provide newly commissioned officers with the foundation they need to lead and manage military police units. The course is held at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri and consists of both classroom instruction and field exercises.

The MPBOLC covers topics such as leadership, law enforcement operations, physical security, investigations, operations planning, training management, resource management, and the Army's values. Students also receive instruction in the areas of weapons qualification and tactical operations.

The course typically lasts five weeks and is open to all newly commissioned officers in the Army's Military Police Corps. To attend MPBOLC, officers must have completed their basic officer training courses prior to attending.

The cost for MPBOLC varies depending on whether or not you are an active duty soldier or a reservist. Active duty soldiers can expect to pay approximately $1,400 for tuition fees while reservists will pay around $2,000.

6. Joint Firepower Control Course

Joint Firepower Control Course (JFCC) is a two-week course designed to provide military personnel with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively control joint fires in support of operations. The course is taught at the Joint Fires and Effects Training Center (JFETC) located at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. The JFCC covers topics such as fire support planning, target acquisition and designation, fire control measures, weapons systems employment, and mission command.

The JFCC is open to all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and takes approximately 14 days to complete. To get this course, individuals must contact their local service school or training center for more information on how to enroll in the program.

The cost of the JFCC varies depending on which branch of service an individual is enrolled in. Generally speaking, military members can expect to pay around $1,500 for tuition and materials associated with the course.

7. Army Aviation Flight School (Rotary Wing)

Army Aviation Flight School (Rotary Wing) is a specialized training program designed to teach Army personnel the skills and knowledge necessary to become proficient in flying rotary-wing aircraft. The course consists of both ground and flight instruction, and covers topics such as aerodynamics, navigation, instrumentation, aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and air traffic control. The program typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete depending on the student’s ability level.

To be eligible for Army Aviation Flight School (Rotary Wing), applicants must have a minimum of 60 college credits or have completed Basic Combat Training. They must also pass an initial physical examination and meet certain height/weight requirements. In addition, applicants must possess a valid driver’s license with no restrictions or suspensions.

The cost of the program varies depending on the type of aircraft used for training. Generally speaking, it can range from $20,000-$50,000 for the entire course of instruction. This includes tuition fees, books/materials, lodging/meals during field exercises, and other related expenses.

8. Special Forces Qualification Course

The Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC) is a rigorous training program designed to prepare soldiers for service in the United States Army Special Forces. The SFQC is divided into three phases: the Assessment and Selection Phase, the Operator Training Phase, and the Language and Culture Phase.

The Assessment and Selection phase is a three-week course that tests physical fitness, mental aptitude, leadership skills, and medical qualifications. After passing this phase of the course, soldiers move on to the Operator Training Phase. This phase consists of four months of intense physical training, weapons training, land navigation classes, demolition classes, communications training, and small unit tactics.

The final phase of the SFQC is the Language and Culture Phase. During this phase students learn foreign languages such as Arabic or Pashto as well as cultural studies pertaining to their area of operations. This phase also includes survival training in remote areas with limited resources.

To get into SFQC you must first meet certain requirements including being an active duty soldier in the US Army with at least two years remaining on your enlistment contract; having a minimum score of 110 on the General Technical portion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test; passing a medical examination; and meeting certain physical fitness standards. Additionally, you must have completed Airborne School prior to attending SFQC.

The cost for SFQC varies depending on your rank and other factors but can range from $2,000 - $4,000 for enlisted personnel or $5,000 - $7,000 for officers. The entire course typically takes about six months to complete from start to finish.

9. Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defense Course

Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) Defense Course is a specialized training course designed to provide personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves, their units, and their communities from the dangers of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. The course covers topics such as NBC detection, decontamination procedures, protective equipment use, medical treatment of NBC casualties, and response planning.

The length of the course can vary depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, most courses are between two and four weeks in length.

To get an NBC Defense Course certification you must complete all required training modules with a passing grade. You may also need to pass an exam or practical evaluation at the end of the course in order to receive your certification.

The cost of an NBC Defense Course varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, most courses range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include textbooks, materials fees, and other administrative fees.

10. Air Traffic Control Operator Course

Air Traffic Control Operator Course is a comprehensive program designed to train individuals to become certified air traffic controllers. The course typically takes between two and four years to complete, depending on the institution offering it. It includes classroom instruction, hands-on experience in an air traffic control tower simulator, and on-the-job training.

To get the Air Traffic Control Operator Course, you must first meet certain requirements such as passing a medical exam and obtaining a security clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). After meeting these requirements, you can apply for admission at an accredited aviation school or college that offers the course. Most schools require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

The cost of the Air Traffic Control Operator Course varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $6,000-$10,000 for the entire program. Additional costs may include textbooks and materials fees.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be eligible to take FAA certification exams and receive their Air Traffic Controller Certificate. This certificate will allow them to work in any air traffic control facility in the United States or abroad.

Do You Really Need a National Guard Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs. National Guard certificates are typically issued to members of the U.S. National Guard who have completed a certain number of hours of service. These certificates can be used for a variety of reasons, such as applying for college scholarships or military benefits, or for obtaining employment in the private sector.

If you are a member of the National Guard and have not yet earned your certificate, it is important to understand the significance of having one. A certificate serves as an official recognition of your commitment to serving the country through the National Guard and is an important credential that can open doors for you in many areas. It also demonstrates your dedication and loyalty to the organization and can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or educational opportunities.

However, if you are not currently a member of the National Guard, you may not need a certificate at all. If you are considering joining the military or applying for benefits or scholarships, it may be beneficial to obtain one, but it is not always necessary. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not having a National Guard Certificate would be beneficial for your individual situation.

Related: National Guard Resume Examples

FAQs About National Guard Certifications

1. What certifications are required to join the National Guard?

Answer: The specific requirements vary by state and branch, but generally include a high school diploma or GED, passing ASVAB scores, passing a physical fitness test, and meeting age and citizenship requirements.

2. How do I apply for National Guard certification?

Answer: You must contact your local National Guard recruiter for information on how to apply for certification in your state.

3. How long does it take to receive National Guard certification?

Answer: The process typically takes several weeks from application to receiving certification. It can take longer if there is a backlog of applications or other delays.

4. Is there a fee associated with National Guard certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require a fee to be paid before you can receive the certification. The amount varies by state and branch of service.

5. How often do I need to renew my National Guard certification?

Answer: Most states require that you renew your certification every two years in order to maintain active status in the National Guard.