u/Maximum_Dish3882

Just got emailed about taking my fitness test for the recent USMS posting. Was able to qualify based on the fact that I have a master’s in public administration. However, i have no LEO experience. I’m a current fed and i do technically work for a federal law enforcement agency, but not on the LEO side. I’m just wondering what my chances would be for actually advancing through the process. I’m guessing they’d be low but i figure it’s still worth it to take the fitness test as i’m in pretty good shape and should pass with no problem. But i’m wondering if it’s heard of and/or how common it is to make it to the academy with no LEO experience. I am in my early 30s so i do have plenty of valuable work experience I can draw from in a structured interview, but i understand that lack of LEO experience could make it impossible. I say this because i know there are many applicants who are LEOs and still don’t make the cut. Thoughts?

Greetings 1102s,

Currently in the 0201 series in a GS-09 position that ladders into a 12 (just entered the federal government in October after earning an MPA last May), and I recently received an interview invitation for GSA's ATD Program. I'd be curious to know whether people would recommend entering the 1102 series at this time and whether everyone thinks there is more long-term potential in the 1102 series than there is in the 0201 (Human Resources) series. I guess the specialty of Human Resource I'm currently in (Classification) is sort of a niche thing, and it seems like there is way more opportunity as a Contract Specialist. For instance I see that many private-sector employers, such as government contractors, frequently hire 1102s, and there are always postings on USAJOBS for experienced 1102s. If I were to be offered a seat in the program, do you think it would be worth making the jump? For further context, I would need to relocate for the position, but this isn't a huge deal as I'm single with no partner or kids. Also, GSA's program is a 9-12 ladder as well, so it's essentially the same pay as my current gig, except it would obviously take me longer to hit my 11 and 12 since my TIG as a GS-09 in the 0201 series obviously wouldn't carry over to the 1102 series (if I'm understanding this correctly). Just curious to hear others' thoughts. This sub is a great resource.