Rates Eliminated

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW) LaTunya Howard, Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Navy announced the elimination of Full-Time Support (FTS) Hull Technician (HT), Machinery Repairman (MR) and Interior Communications (IC) ratings effective March 16 2011. 

This only applies to the Naval Reserves. FTS is reservists and not active duty sailors.

According to NAVADMIN 083/11, an extensive review of advancement opportunity, career diversity and limited duty assignments led to the decision to remove the ratings from the FTS program. 

"The three surface warfare enlisted ratings are too small to maintain effective community health," said Cmdr. Jamie Redman, Perform-to-Serve department head. "There are limited promotion opportunities due to very low turnover at the E7-E9 level." 

Sailors in these FTS ratings can continue their Navy career by converting to other FTS ratings, allowing for broader assignments and improved advancement. For Sailors who want to remain in their current rating, transitioning to active duty is limited based on the active duty community. 

Redman suggest Sailors look at Career Reenlistment Objectives (CREO) 1 and 2 if they are considering conversion. CREO reflects the manning levels for all Navy ratings. CREO categories are identified in one of three levels:

CREO 1 rates are undermanned
CREO 2 rates are manned at desired levels
CREO 3 rates are overmanned

A Navy Counselor or the command career counselor can provide additional CREO information and guidance on the advantages of conversion. 

For more information on the elimination of FTS HT, MR and IC ratings read the NAVADMIN, or contact the Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672) or e-mail cscmailbox@navy.mil. 

For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/npc/.