Armel,

I graduated from SBOLC in March 2016. Though it has been almost two years, the greatest stress I remember having was after I arrived to my gaining unit. The course group I was in was required to test a second time if we did not receive our SEC+ certificate the first time testing. We each received a negative counseling as a result of not passing. However, the Army only authorizes you two vouchers and the time during the course to learn the content and study is limited (especially if you don’t have an IT background..which I don’t!).

I would recommend not using your second voucher unless you are 100% certain you will pass. Upon arrival to my Unit they offered to send me to the SEC+ course and provide me ample time to study and pass – but testing would be on my own dime at that rate. I will say, it isn’t required to have the Certificates and you can successfully do your job without them. Take the time to learn about the equipment and property accountability – especially since it seems you will  be serving as a BN S6 and knowing the capabilities of your equipment will be paramount.

My class developed our own commo book for our COMEX and it is something I used with my Soldiers each time we went to the field when working in an BN S6 office. Consolidate the important information you want on hand and have it accessible. We also established a DropBox that we continue to use to share resources and a Facebook group. I also concur with Mike – get all the information you can from your Pathfinder. He/She will be a great resource to you.

Have a study group, be early to everything and be the first one with your hand up to volunteer – no matter the task at hand. Have fun!

Best,

Ellen