Brig. Gen. Richard J. Hayes Jr., The Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, visited the event and said after years of partial vacancies, getting Illinois' warrant officer program up to full strength was a top priority.
"Everyone here has been identified and selected by their leadership for warrant officer consideration," said Hayes. "Commissioned officers are generalists, but warrants bring highly technical expertise to critical areas, and we are committed to supporting them, their Families, and their employers."
Although last year's WO Selection Event had about 50 attendees and generated several leads, this year's smaller event was targeted towards 30 senior NCOs who already possess the interest and qualifications to begin a warrant officer application. All of the Soldiers that were present in the classroom were screened for eligibility and invited based on recommendations from their commanders. Each attendee came from technical backgrounds where warrant officer positions are hard to fill.
Command Sgt. Maj. Mark W. Bowman, Land Component Command Sergeant Major of the Illinois National Guard, said success in his organization means having the right person in the right slot at the right time. He said he's glad to see experienced NCOs considering the switch.
"Have you had leadership fail you in the past? Ever thought that you could do better? Now is your chance." said Bowman.
Warrant Officer Aaron D. Poynter of Pekin, Illinois, petroleum systems technician for the 108th Sustainment Brigade based in Chicago, came to share his experience with the attendees after being the honor graduate in his Warrant Officer Basic Course that ended in June.
Poynter, an 18 year veteran, was a sergeant first class when he began the warrant officer process. He said he chose warrant officer because it would allow him to do what he loved even longer.
"I would ask anyone interested, if you have the technical knowledge, why not serve your state in the best capacity possible? Why not take the next step to become an expert and advisor?"
Chief Warrant Officer 5 David W. Hammon, Command Chief Warrant Officer of the Illinois National Guard, said the event offers senior Soldiers a great opportunity for career longevity in a way that benefits both the Soldier and the organization.
"Highly specialized and technical career fields aren't always easy to keep filled, but doing so will increase the strength and status of our state," said Hammon. "We have all these great, experienced people, and we want to keep them where they are, but at a higher level."
If you are interested in being a warrant officer please contact Chief Warrant Officer 3 Miranda Dawdy at 217-761-1275 or miranda.r.dawdy.mil@mail.mil.
