CWE

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of Program Authorization 121?

Answer 1

To train college graduates for active duty as Special Duty Officers in Cyber Warfare Engineering (CWE).

Question 2

What legislative authority backs Program Authorization 121?

Answer 2

Title 10 U.S. Code section 532.

Question 3

What replaces the previous Program Authorization 121 of April 2019?

Answer 3

Program Authorization 121 of May 2022.

Question 4

What are the citizenship requirements for CWE candidates?

Answer 4

Candidates must be United States citizens.

Question 5

Are there age limits for CWE candidates?

Answer 5

Yes, candidates must be between 18 and less than 42 years old at time of commissioning, with possible waivers up to age 54 for exceptionally qualified applicants.

Question 6

What educational backgrounds are preferred for CWE candidates?

Answer 6

Degrees in computer science and computer engineering are strongly preferred. Other STEM fields may be considered.

Question 7

What minimum technical coursework is required for CWE candidates?

Answer 7

At least 30 credit hours in software development and/or computer programming, with a preferred GPA of 3.0 in these areas.

Question 8

What kind of technical skills and abilities are required for CWE candidates?

Answer 8

Skills in reverse engineering, vulnerability analysis, and software engineering, especially with proficiency in C programming.

Question 9

What are the security clearance requirements for CWE candidates?

Answer 9

Candidates must meet the ICD 704 eligibility standards for access to sensitive compartmented information; this includes submitting an SF-86 form.

Question 10

How is the application process structured for CWE candidates?

Answer 10

Applications are submitted through chains of command for in-service members or recruiters for civilians, and undergo both professional and technical reviews.

Question 11

What are the non-waivable criteria in the selection process for CWE?

Answer 11

Security clearance eligibility and the skill validation and technical interview cannot be waived.

Question 12

What is the indoctrination process for CWE selectees?

Answer 12

Selectees complete Officer Development School (ODS) at Officer Training Command, Newport, RI.

Question 13

What are the sources of accession for CWE candidates?

Answer 13

Civilians and enlisted personnel of the Navy or other armed services with an approved conditional release.

Question 14

What is the service obligation for CWE selectees?

Answer 14

A five-year active-duty obligation from the date of commissioning, with the total service required to complete eight years including possible Ready Reserve status.

Question 15

How is Constructive Entry Credit determined for CWE candidates?

Answer 15

Based on relevant prior military service and/or civilian work experience, with a maximum of 15 years credit, subject to waivers.

Question 16

What determines the pay grade at which CWE candidates are commissioned?

Answer 16

Recommendations by a professional review board based on the candidate’s qualifications, subject to final approval by the CWE OCM.

Question 17

What are the marital status restrictions for CWE candidates?

Answer 17

There are no restrictions based on marital status.

Question 18

What is the maximum entry grade credit allowed for CWE candidates?

Answer 18

Normally limited to 15 years, with possible exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

Question 19

What kind of professional experience contributes to Constructive Entry Credit for CWE?

Answer 19

Experience in fields like vulnerability research, penetration testing, incident response, and computer forensics.

Question 20

What are the pay and allowances for CWE selectees before commissioning?

Answer 20

Selectees are not entitled to pay and allowances prior to commissioning.