I'm a STA-21 nuke option guy picked up out of prototype and was slated for SWO-N, but they're realocating 90% of us to subs to fill shortages. I've always dreaded this remote possibility because I really, really do not want to go subs, and I never sub vol'd as enlisted. My NUPOC interview is coming up soon and I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to avoid subs as a STA-21? From what I understood you had to volunteer for the sub community, and my guess is they're going to basically order me to volunteer at my interview. Can they force me to go subs, and if you're familiar with the process, do you know how they would do so? I have numerous family and other concerns that I won't get into here that have changed my priorities and ambitions to where I just want to get through my navy committments and get out into the civilian world.
I've seen some posts here from people familiar with the nuke officer accession process. I was considering playing some sort of hardball, but I have the sneaky suspicion that if I draw a line in the sand there, they may just fail my interview. On the other hand, is there any realistic chance for me to get switched into a SWO-N, NR, or DIO post as a STA-21 nuke prior?
Also, what happens if I do end up issuing ultimadums and I fail the interview because of it? With 1 year left to go and a solid GPA, would I have the option of finishing school, maybe commissioning into a non nuke field, or would I be sent back to the fleet enlisted? Just trying to get an idea of my options because my official inquiries have naturally been met with resistance.
