National guard personnel/Michael H

A fun fact about National Guard personnel is that they are sworn to uphold both the federal and their state's constitutions, a unique aspect compared to other branches of the U.S. military. Additionally, the National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. military, dating back to 1636.

Creative & Visual Skills
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Critical Thinking & Judgement
Emotional Intelligence & Personal Traits
Professional & Technical Knowledge
Organizational & Operational Skills
Physical & Situational Readiness

Where does this job happen?

 National Guard personnel operate across various locations within the United States and sometimes internationally, depending on their deployment.They can also be deployed to federal missions, including overseas operations, disaster relief efforts, and national security initiatives. Their activities may take place in military facilities, urban and rural communities, and other designated areas throughout the country and abroad.


What do they actually do?

 National Guard personnel perform a variety of roles, including responding to natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and wildfires; assisting in emergency and disaster relief efforts; supporting civil authorities during protests or civil disturbances; providing security and logistical support for community events; and conducting military training and readiness exercises. They can be called upon by their state governors for local emergencies or deployed federally to support national defense, overseas missions, or broader security operations. Essentially, they serve both their state and the country in times of need.

What kind of person does this?

A person who joins the National Guard is often someone who is patriotic, responsible, disciplined, and committed to serving their community and country. They tend to be team players, adaptable, physically fit, and willing to undergo training and take on leadership roles when needed. Many are motivated by a desire to help others, serve in emergencies, or pursue a career in the military while maintaining ties to their local community.


What skills do you need?

 National Guard personnel need a variety of skills to perform their duties effectively. These include basic military skills like discipline, weapons handling, and tactical operations; emergency response skills such as first aid, rescue, and disaster management; strong communication and teamwork abilities; physical fitness; and technical expertise relevant to their specific roles (e.g., engineering, medical, communications). Additionally, adaptability, problem-solving, leadership, and cultural awareness are important to handle diverse situations and work with different communities.


How much money can you make?

 The amount a National Guard member makes per year depends on their rank, experience, and whether they are activated full-time or part-time. Typically, part-time service (drills and training) provides a base pay that can range from around $22,000 to $50,000 annually for the average member, with higher pay for more senior ranks. When activated or deployed, members also receive additional pay and allowances. For exact figures, it's best to consult the current military pay charts or speak with a recruiter.