Planning to become an officer, should I avoid PLQ while in the ranks?

[PTE Gruending]

I forgot to add a couple things, as far as PLQ:

I was thinking of spending 2-4 years in ranks and then perhaps commissioning. It is my guess that there must be a lot of redundant training in PLQ and CAP(R) (Leading a section, instructional techniques, etc etc?). Would it be stupid of me to take PLQ if I had intentions of becoming an Officer?
Thanks

 

[McG]

You would not be disadvantaged by having completed a PLQ.  It would likely give you an edge over other candidates on a CAP(R).

 

[Eowyn]

I agree with you McG.   Also you may apply for officer, but they don't have to accept.   Getting your PLQ and doing well, might show your leadership potential.   Every little thing counts in a competition.

 

[Storm]

Extra training can only make you better. Take any course they let you on.

 

[Parasoldier]

I am not sure for the reserves, but if you complete PLQ you get a pass on Phase II and go straight to Phase III.  You will gain more on a PLQ then on a Phase II.

 

[Fraser.g]

As someone who has done both PLQ (JLC/JNCO) and Cap (R) I have to say do both. The taskings and repetition and feedback that I got on my PLQ gave me a large head start on Cap R.

Any time you spend culturing your leadership and decision making skills will not be waisted when and if you commission.

 

[Michael OLeary]

While there are advantages to considering the PLQ as a preparatory stage to the CAP, one aspect you might consider is that if you do complete the PLQ and then shortly thereafter pursue your commission, then your unit has "lost" the benefits of a PLQ vacancy that could have gone towards the training of an NCO.

 

[HollywoodHitman]

Any opportunity to take a leadership course should be taken. While it is a valid point that a spot will be taken up on a PLQ if they take a commission, they will be a leadership trained soldier, who will then become an officer with previous leadership experience.....Officers often don't have the benefit of having led troops, while a troop. Credibility with the soldiers could increase as well.  I'd say take whatever courses you can get. Some of the best officers I've ever had were CFR's..........

My 2 cents.

 

[pbi]

The more leadership trg and practice you can get, the better. I started as a Res NCO, then transferred to RegF offr. I know that without any doubt my NCO training helped me. Take it. Cheers.