Written by Cmdr. Beth Naff, CG-PSC-OPM-3
Never heard of it? What is "OSMS"? The Officer Specialty Management System officially came online in June 2013. At its essence, this system provides the means to determine officer specialty demand (the billets) and supply (the officers) by way of assigned officer specialty codes.
In general terms...what does the Coast Guard need and what do we have?
The requirements of each officer specialty code are clearly defined by their respective programs. Each specialty is built on applicable competencies, training, education, certifications/licenses, and/or experience. This officer specialty clarity is especially useful to junior officers seeking career path guidance.
"OSMS is critical to officer workforce management," Capt. Michael Johnston asserts from his position as Personnel Service Center - Officer Personnel Management, which manages the program. "The Coast Guard needs to know, with accuracy and completeness, what types of officer specialists do we need, and what do we have? This information feeds many human resource processes and decisions; including accession determination, workforce health management, the assignment process and training management, among others. Getting this information right is important to the Coast Guard, to the unit, and to you the member."
How does this affect you
If you are an officer, you should work to obtain an officer specialty code/s assignment in your area of expertise.
As leaders - educate, guide and support officers that work with and for you.
Where to go from here:
Review the officer specialty requirements Ensure your employee summary sheet contains verification of requirements (via Direct Access and TMT entry) Apply for your officer specialty code!
Find more in-depth OSMS information on the PSC-opm-3 website, or contact Mr. Brandon Chittum, OSMS Program Manager.
There will also be a webcast coming your way soon!