The Educational Services Office (ESO) onboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) hosted an enlisted commissioning fair on the enlisted mess decks March 16.

Chief Warrant Officer Two George Williams, ESO, said the fair offered a variety of methods enlisted Sailors could pursue to make the jump from blue shirts to khakis.

“Enlisted Sailors can get a medical field commissioning, they can go to the U.S. Naval Academy, they can become a limited duty officer,” said Williams.  “All these programs tie together.  It’s just a matter of finding out which one is the most beneficial.”

Representatives were on hand for several commissioning programs including the U.S. Naval Academy, Officer Candidate School, Limited Duty Officer-Chief Warrant Officer, Nurse Corps, Chaplain Corps, and many others. 

Williams said many of the representatives used to be enlisted service members, and thus were able to provide better guidance.

The representatives set up tables with information packets and application forms. They spoke with Sailors one-on-one to offer advice if needed and to help determine the optimum route they can take to becoming an officer.

Many of the Sailors who attended the fair found it to be very helpful and informative.

“I want to make the Navy a career, so I’m looking to find the best avenue to take to get a commission,” said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (AW/SW) Karl Stone, AIMD.  “If I can go up the chain I’ll be able to make more of a positive difference.  Plus it’ll be better financially, so I can take better care of my family.”

Another opportunity Wil-liams suggests Sailors take advantage of is college, which is a necessary steppingstone to becoming an officer. 

“The Navy is downsizing right now, so we’re looking for frontrunners to assume leadership positions,” said Williams.  “This fair was set up to feed information to the crew.  My personal commitment to the crew is to provide opportunities to advance and succeed.”

ESO also hosted a college fair Wednesday to inform the crew about local colleges, tuition assistance, and more.