Coast Guard Officer Career Development

Command, Control, Comms, and Computers (C4)
The Coast Guard is a prolific user of information technology at all organizational levels, from the smallest operational unit to the Commandant's office. As used here, the term "information technology" is very broad, encompassing virtually all Coast Guard computer, information, communication, and electronic systems.

While Coast Guard information technology contains three primary specialties, a substantial interrelationship exists among them:

• Electrical Engineering (OBC 58)
• Computer and Information System Management (OBC 22 and 26)
• Telecommunications Management (OBC 74)

Computer and information systems managers specify, procure, implement, test, validate, configure, maintain, and manage computer and information systems and computer networks. They may work with Coast Guard standard or nonstandard computer systems and various Coast Guard information systems (e.g., SARMIS, LEIS, MSIS,etc.). Tasks include database administration, systems analysis and design, network design and administration, systems integration, and information or computer systems management.

Required Skill Sets
Significant practical experience with computer or information systems (e.g., prior enlisted with regional system manager experience) or an undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science or Information Systems is expected. A postgraduate degree is preferred.

Advanced Education and Training Opportunities
The computer and information systems management specialty has an advanced education program. The Information Technology Management program currently sends some candidates to universities to earn a Master of Science in Information Systems. Other candidates are given approval to pursue and to earn a Master of Science in either Computer Science or Software Systems Engineering. Additionally, each year, candidates are selected for the Advanced Computer and Electronic Technology (ACET) program, attending universities to earn either an associate or bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Information Systems. The program manager (G-SRF) approves each university and curriculum. The first assignment after advanced education develops practical applications which adapt theoretical knowledge to current Coast Guard projects.

The Coast Guard Officer Career Guidebook contains a detailed list of Advanced Education Opportunities.