So, you are thinking about a career as an enlisted member of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Well, that’s awesome!

The question is, do you have what it takes?

Keep reading to find out more…

If you are interested in joining the enlisted forces of the U.S. military, you are in good company. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the enlisted workforce in the Armed Forces is made up of 1,085,286 personnel.

So, is there any room left for you?

Great question!

And the answer is yes.

While it isn’t possible to give an exact estimate of new recruits needed by the U.S. military in the next few years, the demand for enlisted personnel is driven by the need to fill entry-level and professional positions as current members of the Armed Forces move up through the ranks, leave the service, or retire.

When the economy is thriving, and civilian employment opportunities are generally more favorable, it becomes more difficult for the military to meet its recruitment quotas. These recruitment quotas can also increase in the case of global conflicts. Consequently, the nation is expected to maintain adequate personnel in the Reserve, Army National Guard, and Air National Guard.

Who is becoming an enlisted Armed Forces member?

According to the Council on Foreign Relations, women represent 16% of the enlisted forces in the U.S. military.

What personal qualities and characteristics make a good enlisted Armed Forces member?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following qualities are important to have as an enlisted member of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Leadership skills. Members of the Armed Forces work together to achieve their missions. Those who want to advance ranks need to be able to lead others in the completion of assigned duties or missions.

Mental preparedness. Members of the Armed Forces must be mentally fit and able to handle stressful situations that can occur during military operations.

Physical fitness.Members of the Armed Forces must be physically fit to participate in, or support, combat missions that may be difficult or dangerous.

Readiness. Members of the Armed Forces must be ready and able to report for military assignments on short notice.

The bottom line: If joining the enlisted forces of the U.S. military is something you feel passionately about, the one word of advice we will give you is: Go for it!