Selection is the first step in the Alliance process. It is also the most important. Our program is not for everyone. We have high expectations for our candidates, and our candidates should have high expectations for themselves.
Measurables
We have two primary measurables:
- Experience
- Performance
Experience
Our prospective candidates are between the officer ranks of O2 and O4 with 4 to 8 years of experience. We select officers from all services. Most of our officers possess a “leadership first” mentality, meaning they have successfully led people in their careers. Engineering degrees are desirable, but we also accept candidates with degrees in humanities, social sciences, etc. More importantly, you must have demonstrated consistency in your studies and a high aptitude for learning. This includes continuous learning, meaning listening to podcasts, reading books, and participating in learning programs.
Performance
You must have demonstrated consistent performance in your military career. This means receiving strong grades from your commands and being ranked competitively against your peers. Additionally, we look for JMOs who have served in demanding roles. We want individuals who have challenged themselves and performed well, especially in leadership positions.
Intangibles
Motivation is a critical factor in selection. Motivation includes two factors:
- Commitment
- Openness
Commitment
Commitment centers on investing in our program. We will invest hours in your development, mentorship, and preparation to help you succeed. Our ask is that you reciprocate with your effort. Be present, engaged, and ask questions to maximize the return on our program. Our most successful candidates are those who commit to the Alliance Way.
Commitment is the foundation of our program. With commitment, a candidate learns about the available opportunity but also themselves. This helps them focus on their interests and motivation, which in turn often leads to success.
Kacey Kemmerer, Co-President, Alliance Careers
Openness
Openness is a willingness to explore the possibilities of your career. This means being open to different roles and geographies. It is not uncommon for candidates to enter our program believing their skills and interest map to one profession only to change their mind once learning about the various alternative opportunities. We understand you have a preference for your location. However, geographic openness is a strong predictor of a successful transition. We encourage candidates to consider not only their short term preferences, but the long term implications of openness for an incredible career opportunity.
Timing
Prospective candidates best excel when they are in our program for 6 months or more. We have accepted candidates as early 18 months or as late as one month. Candidates who ingress into the program at one month or less have a difficult time completing the required development and preparation to be competitive against their peers. With that said, we develop a priorities schedule to best guide you in the program.