Primarily to Shamrock...
Sorry you didn't care for my question... no intention of insulting anyone, just asking how this works, and perhaps why? I'm ALWAYS looking to learn something new, have no problem standing corrected, and most of all hate being misinformed... Hence coming here, to the experts. I sincerely welcome being Set Straight on any topic if I'm wrong, or simply looking at it the wrong way. No need to feel threatened or belittled by someone asking a question or seeiking more info. NOTHING in my original post was meant to be critical of the process, merely inquisitive. Please don't object to someone asking a question, else the purpose of these forums is in doubt...
My life experience and training are thus far significant in the civilian world. Science Degree, Commercial/Multi-IFR pilot license, advanced First Aid/Defib, Rescue SCUBA diver, Advanced Sailing, Taser (harder to get than firearms license these days!), munitions, Peace Officer, ERT advanced tactics, the list goes on I won't bore you...
...BUT in terms of military I'm a mere "applicant" and don't know your terms of DP1 or DP2, think I get the meaning, tho... However, I clearly understand your argument that a fresh DEO 2LT has "1 day in" and thus no claims to seniority of any kind, and I don't dispute your point whatsoever that I would likely spend most of my Lieutenancy in some sort of training, given the time scales involved.
BUT... that's no different than the ROTP grad example you just cited. This person, yes with 3-5 years in, has ALSO been in training the ENTIRE time, taken in approx $150-200k in salary, plus the cost of that 4-yr education (approx another $25-30k?), and just getting out of University has also provided the taxpayer with zero tangible service by that point. Correct me if I'm wrong, but University students (ROTP or otherwise) don't generally apply their trade until completed? Don't deploy? Don't perform resupply missions, fight, practice medicine, fly, etc?
Yes, you are absolutely correct that in between those 4-5 yrs of school, the ROTP candidate would have completed some of the courses I would be looking to begin on my 'Day 1', but we're talking a couple 7-9 week courses vs a 4-5 year degree.
As valuable as the ROTP program is, just basically wondering out loud why qualified applicants with education and life experience like myself, seem DIScouraged from applying (via payscales) in favor of someone fresh outta highschool with little skill foundation to build upon. Business-wise, seems best to recruit and retain qualified individuals... saves a LOT of time and $$, and our CF are no different than any other gov't outfit in experiencing serious budget pressures. In my one case alone, CF would be saved 5 years and approx $250k... and that's if I don't skip Primary Flight Training! (thus saving more time, freeing up a spot for another student, skipping the months of OJT before and/or after, etc)
This post is in no way meant to be arrogant, it's an honest inquiry. No need to squash someone's Profile cuz you disagree...