Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
1
Information
Network
Engineering
Functional
Area
(FA
26).
1.
Introduction.
a.
Purpose. Information Network Engineering (FA 26) is a functional area of the Signal Regiment with the
mission to install, operate, maintain, secure, and defend the Army portion of the Department of Defense (DOD)
information networks and services in a single end-to-end network from the strategic core to the tactical edge.
FA 26 provides the Army with a professional corps of skilled communications systems engineering officers
able to lead highly technical Soldiers, warrant officers, and civilians to manage complex information technology
projects in support of unified land operations and provide consistent enterprise systems and services to all
users. FA 26 contains three Areas of Concentration (AOC): AOC 26A Network Systems Engineering (CPT-
LTC), AOC 26B Information Systems Engineering (CPT-LTC), and AOC 26Z Information Network Engineering
(COL). (Effective 1 Oct 2023 (FY24), the title will change to Data Network Engineering (FA 26))
b.
Vision and Core Competencies. FA 26 officers provide innovative Mission Command Network
communications solutions. FA 26 officers specialize in leading teams of technical experts to engineer secure
and reliable information network systems to meet Army and Joint All Domain Operations (JADO)
communication requirements.
c.
Proponent Information. Chief of Signal and commandant of the U.S. Army Signal School, Cyber Center of
Excellence, Fort Gordon, GA. Obtain further information through
https://cybercoe.army.mil/SIGNALSCH/index.html and by e-mailing usarmy.gordon.cyber-
coe.mbx.sigcoocosod-mailbox@mail.mil.
d.
Unique Functions Performed by FA 26.
(1)
Network Systems Engineering (AOC 26A). AOC 26A officers engineer networks that enhance Mission
Command.
(2)
Information Systems Engineering (AOC 26B). AOC 26B officers engineer information technology (IT)
systems and services which enhance Mission Command. (Effective 1 Oct 2023 (FY24), the title will change to
Data Systems Engineering (AOC 26B)).
(3)
Information Network Engineering (AOC 26Z). AOC 26Z officers provide strategic leadership in the
engineering networks and services that enhance Mission Command. (Effective 1 Oct 2023 (FY24), the title will
change to Data Network Engineering (AOC 26Z).
2.
Officer
Characteristics
Required.
a.
Characteristics Required of All Officers. Expect all officers to possess the base characteristics to develop
into agile and adaptive leaders for the 21st century. In addition, the Army Values and Warrior Ethos grounds
our leaders, knowledge, and skills ensure to competence in core proficiencies and obtain broad experiences to
operate across the spectrum of conflict. Officers can reference further explanation of these characteristics in
ADP 3–0 and Part Two of DA PAM 600-3.
b.
FA 26 Core Competencies. FA 26 Information Network Engineering officers must possess the technical
and operational expertise to provide innovative solutions to meet complex and dynamic warfighter
communications and information requirements. Officers must possess data literacy and be analytical thinkers
that can solve complex data problem-sets across multiple disciplines. They must effectively articulate complex
technical concepts into operational terms their supported commanders can understand and from which they
can make effective decisions and direct action. They must be able to translate vast amounts of complex data
into abstract concepts and solutions. FA 26 values officers with academic backgrounds from a select range of
science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines and majors identified in paragraph 3c(1). FA
26 officers operate in the following work categories of DOD Cyberspace Workforce Framework (DCWF) and
DODD 8140.01: Operate and Maintain, Protect and Defend, Security Provision and Oversight, and
Development. The National Initiative for Cyber Security Education (NICE) National Cybersecurity Workforce
Framework (https://csrc.nist.gov/publications/sp800
) drives the DCWF. The NICE National Cybersecurity
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
2
Workforce Framework provides a valuable template to describe the broad scope of knowledge, skills, and
behaviors possessed by FA 26 officers. While not inclusive of all the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required,
the paragraphs below outline key knowledge and skills needed in all FA 26 officers and highlights the different
knowledge and skills possessed by AOC 26A and AOC 26B officers.
(1)
FA 26 Information Network Engineering.
Knowledge of system administration and systems engineering theories, concepts, and methods.
(DCWF Code – 451)
Knowledge of local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) principles and
concepts, including bandwidth management. Knowledge of network protocols and how traffic flows across the
network (e.g., Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Open System Interconnection
model (OSI), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)), and directory services (e.g., Domain Name
System (DNS)). (DCWF Code – 441/451)
Knowledge of emerging technologies (e.g., social, mobile, analytics, cloud, internet of things).
Knowledge of virtualization theory and practice following industry standards. Understanding basic concepts,
terminology, and operations of a wide range of communications media (e.g., computer networks, satellite, fiber,
wireless). (DCWF Code – 441/451)
Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and organizational requirements relevant to confidentiality,
integrity, availability, authentication, and non-repudiation. Knowledge of IT security principles and methods
(e.g., firewalls, demilitarized zones, encryption). (DCWF Code – 621)
Knowledge of scripting languages. (DCWF Code – 621)
Knowledge of Accreditation and Authorization (A&A) and Risk Management Framework (RMF).
(DCWF Code – 612/641)
Knowledge of host/network access, identity access management (e.g., public key infrastructure
(PKI), access control lists, and Intrusion Detection System (IDS) tools and applications. (DCWF Codes –
511/521)
Knowledge of the IT enterprise architecture (EA) information security architecture system. (DCWF
Code – 651/652)
Knowledge of computer network defense (CND) and vulnerability assessment tools, including
open-source tools and capabilities. (DCWF Code – 541)
Knowledge of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities (e.g., buffer overflow,
mobile code, cross-site scripting, Procedural Language/Structured Query Language (PL/SQL) and injections,
race conditions, covert channel, replay, return-oriented attacks, malicious code). (DCWF Code – 461)
Knowledge of the Army’s acquisition and portfolio management processes in accordance with
applicable national laws, DOD policies, and regulations. (DCWF Code – 802/804)
Skill in project management IAW Project Management Institute’s Project Management Book of
Knowledge. (DCWF Code – 802)
(2)
Network
Systems
Engineering
(AOC
26A).
Knowledge of critical telecommunication concepts (e.g., Routing Algorithms, Satellite
Communications Link Budgeting). Understanding of communication methods, principles, and concepts (e.g.,
encoding, signaling, multiplexing) that support the network infrastructure. (DCWF Code – 441)
Knowledge of network equipment c
apabilities and applications, including hubs, routers, switches,
bridges, servers, transmission media, and related hardware. (DCWF Code – 441)
Knowledge
of
mathematics
in
logarithms,
trigonometry,
linear
algebra,
calculus,
and
statistics.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
3
Skill in network mapping and recreating network topologies. Knowledge of network design
processes, including security objectives, operational objectives, tradeoffs, and knowledge of network traffic
and packet-level analysis method. (DCWF Code – 441)
Skill in using network management tools to analyze network traffic patterns, capacity, and
performance characteristics (e.g., simple network management protocol). Skill in performing packet-level
analysis using appropriate tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump). (DCWF Code – 441)
Skill in configuring and utilizing network protection components (e.g., firewalls, Virtual Private
Networks (VPNs), Network Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs)). (DCWF Code – 652)
Skill in developing, testing, and implementing network infrastructure contingency and recovery
plans. (DCWF Code – 441)
Skill in installing, configuring, and troubleshooting local area network (LAN) and wide area network
(WAN). (DCWF Code – 441)
Skill in using network analysis tools to identify vulnerabilities. (DCWF Code – 541)
(3)
Information
Systems
Engineering
(AOC
26B).
Knowledge of information administration and information standardization of policies and standards.
(DCWF Code – 421)
Knowledge of application/operating system vulnerabilities. (DCWF Code – 541)
Knowledge of information backup, types of backups (e.g., full, incremental), and recovery concepts
and tools. (DCWF Code – 422)
Knowledge of query languages such as Structured Query Language (SQL). (DCWF Code –
421)
Knowledge of the capabilities and functionality of various technologies for organizing
information and enabling knowledge management (e.g., databases, bookmarking engines, groupware,
SharePoint). (DCWF Code – 431)
Knowledge in data operations by ensuring data is visible, accessible, understandable, linked,
trusted, interoperable, and secure (VAULTIS), ultimately achieving data-centricity by using speed and scale
for operational advantage and increased efficiency across the warfighting functions and Army operations.
(DCWF Code – 651)
Skill with current data algorithms, data analysis tools, and techniques to efficiently process and
transform data into an analyzed format. (DCWF Code – 421)
Skill in developing, constructing, testing, optimizing, maintaining, and securing databases and
large-scale data processing systems. Ensure quality, relevancy, and security of data that analysts and staff
can effectively utilize. (DCWF Code – 441)
Skill in supporting the data needs of multiple warfighting functions, systems, and products across
a wide range of architectures and integrating them into a seamless data environment. (DCWF – 431)
Skill in configuring and utilizing software-based computer protection tools (e.g., Host-Based
Security System (HBSS) software firewalls, anti-virus software, and anti-spyware). (DCWF Code – 511)
Skill in service management in accordance with (IAW) Information Technology Infrastructure
Library (ITIL), including Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Operation, Service Transition, and
Continuous Service Improvement. (DCWF Code – 521/632)
Skill in identifying and anticipating server performance, availability, capacity, or configuration
problems. Skill in monitoring and optimizing server and database performance. (DCWF Code – 451)
Skill in maintaining databases and directory services. (DCWF Code – 421/451)
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
4
(4)
Information Network Engineering (AOC 26Z). AOC 26Z officers are expected to have an executive-
level understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities possessed by AOC 26A and AOC 26B officers.
c.
*Special Qualifications Required of FA 26 Officers. All FA 26 officers must be eligible for and maintain a
Top-Secret/Special Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance. FA 26 officers should
immediately obtain a TSC/SCI security clearance upon functional designation into AOC 26A or AOC 26B
functional area designation. Officers who cannot obtain this requirement will be transferred back to their basic
branch.
d.
Regimental Affiliation. The Signal Regiment is organized under the “whole branch” regimental concept IAW
AR 670-1. Therefore, all FA 26 officers are strongly encouraged to affiliate with the Signal Regiment upon
graduation from their respective functional course and awarded AOC 26A or AOC 26B.
3.
FA 26 Officer Development
a.
Officer Development Model. The officer development model focuses more on the quality and range of
experience than the specific assignments required to progress. Therefore, there is no standard progression of
duty positions or assignment locations.
b.
Lieutenant and Captain Development Prior to Functional Designation. There are no lieutenant positions
within FA 26, and officers at this rank cannot transfer into the functional area until promotable to CPT. Officers
considering a transfer to FA 26 should focus on job performance, gaining operational, and troop-leading
experience during basic branch assignments as they serve as the foundation for future effectiveness. Officers
are encouraged to seek out key positions within their basic branch that is considered core to their development
as officers (e.g., platoon leader or company commander). Obtaining information technology certifications is
beneficial, but demonstrated promotion potential is the primary factor in selecting a functional area. The best
way to demonstrate promotion potential in the Army is through well-enumerated, superior evaluations.
c.
Accession into FA 26. For active component officers only, all transfers into FA 26 are executed through
the Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP). VTIP boards are held semi-annually by HRC for officers with
between three and 14 years of active federal commissioned service (AFCS). Interested officers should refer to
the most recent MILPER message for current information. Lieutenant colonels or majors with 14 years or more
of AFCS or officers who must transfer out of their current branch due to medical limitations may apply to transfer
into FA 26 as detailed in the exception to policy portion of the VTIP MILPER message. Additionally, civilians,
enlisted personnel, and warrant officers can directly commission to FA 26. The Army established the Direct
Commission program to fill critical gaps in our formation. The Signal Direct Commission selection panels are
held as needed.
(1)
Prerequisites. Officers accessing FA 26 must possess an undergraduate or graduate degree in
science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, or demonstrate a STEM aptitude with a Graduate Record
Examination (GRE) Quantitative score of 153 or higher. This requirement demonstrates that the officer has the
STEM aptitude necessary to complete FA 26 qualification training. Recommend one of the following disciplines
for the undergraduate or graduate degrees for accession into FA 26: computer engineering, electrical
engineering, software engineering, network engineering, computer science, cybersecurity, information
systems management, data science, engineering analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, or a related
science, technology, engineering, or mathematics discipline.
(2)
AOC Designation. The VTIP panel will designate officers accessing FA 26 AOC 26A (Network Systems
Engineering) or AOC 26B (Information Systems Engineering) based on the officer’s preference, academic
background, technical certifications, and needs of the Army. Officers will be notified of AOC designation upon
selection into FA 26.
(3)
Captain.
Education. Selected officers should attend functional area qualification training and serve in a
utilization assignment in their assigned AOC as soon as possible after FA 26 designation. Functional area
qualification training is successful completion of the Information Systems Operations Leveler (ISOL) course,
followed by the Network Systems Engineering Course (NSEC) for AOC 26A and the Information Systems
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
5
Engineering Course phases one and two for AOC 26B. Recommended industry certificates include Information
Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundations and approved Information Assurance Manager (IAM)
Level III baseline certification IAW DOD 8570.01-m. Officers, who have not previously completed a basic branch
Captain’s Career Course, will attend the Signal Captain’s Career Course at Fort Gordon, GA.
Typical Developmental Assignments. FA 26 candidates should typically transfer from their basic
branch to begin functional area qualification within 12 months of designation. All FA 26 positions are Key
Developmental (KD) assignments. Officers should strive to complete a minimum of 24 months in AOC 26A or
AOC 26B assignments before considering captains’ broadening opportunities. Typical developmental
assignments at captain include:
(1)
AOC 26A.
(i)
60th
Signal
Battalion
(Offensive
Cyber
Operations)
(ii)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(iii)
Network Sys Engr in a Signal Battalion, Brigade or Command; Military Intelligence
Brigade, Division, Regional Cyber Center (RCC), NETCOM, Commands, AAMDC,
ASCC
(iv)
US
Military
Academy
(USMA),
Instructor
(v)
Cyber Protection Team (CPT)
(vi)
USA
Cyber
Warfare
Support
Battalion,
OIC,
Infrastructure
Support
(vii)
USA
Information
System
Engineering
Command,
Network
Sys
Engr
(viii)
USA Operational Test Command, Test Officer
(ix)
White
House
Communications
Agency
(WHCA)
(2)
AOC 26B.
(i)
60
th
Signal Battalion (Offensive Cyber Operations)
(ii)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(iii)
Info Sys Engr in a Signal BN, BDE, or CMD; Military Intelligence BDE, Regional
Cyber Center (RCC), NETCOM, ARCYBER, DISA
(iv)
Info Sys Engr in a SOF/GPF/CA/PSYOPS, FSB, MFSB, BCT, Division, Commands,
AAMDC, ASCC
(v)
Knowledge Sys Engr in a Division, AAMDC, ASCC
(vi)
US
Military
Academy
(USMA),
Instructor
(vii)
1
st
and 2
nd
Information Operations (IO) Battalion
(viii)
2
nd
IO Battalion, Detachment Co Commander
(ix)
75
th
Ranger Regiment, Info Sys Engr
(x)
Security
Force
Assistance
Brigade
(SFAB)
(xi)
USA
Enterprise
Cloud
Management
Agency
(xii)
USA
Joint
Modernization
Command
(JMC)
Broadening Assignments. Due to the technical nature and need for early development in this
AOC, FA 26 captains usually will not serve in branch immaterial or other assignments outside the AOC.
However, captains may be selected for fully funded Advanced Civilian Schooling (ACS) or Training with
Industry (TWI) in an AOC 26A or AOC 26B related discipline upon being ready for the next promotion board.
Graduates of either program will incur a follow-on utilization assignment in an Army Educational Requirements
System (AERS) coded position. Additional education opportunities include the Computer Network Operations
Development Program (CNODP) and other Army-supported education/fellowship programs.
Self-development. AOC 26A captains should pursue aggressive self-development through
graduate-level education, industry certifications, and completion of online training related to networking,
computer science, cyberspace operations, cybersecurity, and other relevant disciplines. Due to the rapid
changes in technology, captains are encouraged to join professional organizations and subscribe to journals
to stay current with industry trends and advancements. Captains are also encouraged to conduct research and
write articles for professional and military publications. Obtaining the Certified Information Systems Security
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
6
Professional (CISSP) certification is highly encouraged for AOC 26A, and Certified Information Security
Manager (CISM) for AOC 26B satisfies cybersecurity certification requirements for Information Assurance
Technician (IAT) and Information Assurance Manager (IAM) Level III positions. No-cost IT training is available
through Army eLearning (Skillport) (https://usarmy.skillport.com), LandWarNet (https://lwn.army.mil), the
Federal Virtual Training Environment (https://fedvte.usalearning.gov/), and Army Credentialing Opportunities
On-Line (COOL) at https://www.cool.osd.mil/army/index.htm. Additional cost and no-cost civilian IT training
and education courses are available via the internet.
Desired Experience.
(1)
AOC 26A captains should demonstrate competency in basic network engineering,
assessment, managing, and planning and experience in conducting current network operations, including
dynamic network defense and security. Assignments should enable captains to gain knowledge, skills, and
behaviors to accurately evaluate technologies and prepare technical specification documents based on those
evaluations. Desired experience at the rank of captain is a minimum of 24 months in at least one AOC 26A
typical developmental assignment to gain the necessary technical skills and operational background.
(2)
AOC 26B captains should demonstrate competency in information systems and services
planning, analyzing, and management, and experience in conducting information systems security.
Assignments should enable captains to acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities in information systems
management, information security, and information dissemination management in support of an immediate
headquarters. Desired experience at the rank of captain is 12 to 24 months in at least one AOC 26B typical
developmental assignment to gain the necessary technical skills and operational background.
(4)
Major.
Education. All FA 26 majors must complete Intermediate Level Education (ILE). ILE for functional
area officers includes the ILE Common Core and the AOC 26A or AOC 26B qualification course. A limited
number of AOC 26B officers from a cohort year group will be competitively selected to attend resident CGSC at
Fort Leavenworth, KS. If not previously qualified as a captain, FA 26 majors must complete the functional area
qualification training requirement outlined in paragraph 3c(1). Officers can complete functional area
qualification training and ILE Common Core in any sequence.
Typical Developmental Assignments. All FA 26 positions are key developmental (KD)
assignments. Officers should strive to complete an aggregate of 24 to 36 months in typical developmental
assignments before considering more senior major broadening assignments. Typical developmental
assignments at major include:
(1)
AOC 26A.
(i)
AOC 26A Branch Manager, HRC
(ii)
AOC 26A Career Program Manager, U.S. Army Signal School
(iii)
60th Signal BN (Offensive Cyber Operations)
(iv)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(v)
Instructor,
26A
Course
(vi)
Network
Cross
Functional
Team,
Requirements
Officer
(vii)
Sr Network Sys Engr in a Signal Brigade or Command, Military Intelligence Brigade,
Division, RCC, ARCYBER, Corps, DISA, ASCC, COCOM, Joint, or higher
commands
(viii)
US
Military
Academy
(USMA),
Instructor
(ix)
White
House
Communication
Agency
(WHCA)
(x)
North
American
Aerospace
Defense
Command
(xi)
PEO, Enterprise Info Sys, Sr Ntwk Sys Engr
(xii)
USA
Artificial
Intelligence
Integration
Center
(2)
AOC 26B.
(i)
AOC 26B Branch Manager, HRC
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
7
(ii)
AOC 26B Career Program Manager, U.S. Army Signal School
(iii)
60th Signal BN (Offensive Cyber Operations)
(iv)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(v)
Instructor,
26B
Course
(vi)
Network Cross Functional Team, Sr Info Sys Engr
(vii)
Sr Info Assurance Officer in a Division, Command, ASCC
(viii)
Sr Info Sys Engr in a Signal BDE, Division, RCC, NETCOM, ARCYBER, DISA,
Commands, ASCC, or higher commands
(ix)
Sr Knowledge Sys Engr in a Corps, ASCC
(x)
US
Military
Academy
(USMA),
Instructor
(xi)
White
House
Communication
Agency
(WHCA)
(xii)
2nd IO BN, EOC Team Lead
(xiii)
National
Ground
Intelligence
Center
(NGIC)
(xiv)
USA
Enterprise
Cloud
Management
Agency
Broadening Assignments. AOC 26A majors’ training, education, and development should focus
on network systems engineering. AOC 26B majors’ training, education, and development should focus on
information systems engineering. Due to the technical nature of these AOCs, AOC 26A and AOC 26B majors
usually will not serve in branch immaterial or other assignments outside of the AOC. Generally, FA 26 majors
should seek repetitive assignments as FA 26, striving for various experiences at different levels of operation
(e.g., tactical, operational, strategic, joint, and multinational). Majors may be selected for fully funded ACS or
TWI programs. Graduates of either program will incur a follow-on utilization assignment in an Army Educational
Requirements System (AERS) coded position. In addition, some officers may attend Ph.D. programs with
utilization assignments as a USMA professor. FA 26 officers are encouraged to seek opportunities that enhance
the officer’s understanding of the global network environment associated with JADO assignments. Successful
completion of JPME II is encouraged. Additional education opportunities include the Defense Advanced
Research Projects Agency Service Chiefs Internship and other Army-supported education/fellowship
programs.
Self-development. FA 26 majors should pursue self-development programs to fully master all
aspects of network information systems and information systems engineering, including JADO operations. FA
26 majors should pursue aggressive self-development through graduate-level education, industry
certifications, and completion of online training related to networking, computer science, cyberspace
operations, cybersecurity, and other relevant disciplines. Majors need to stay current on industry trends through
trade associations, journals, and participation in DOD and industry-sponsored forums focused on evolving IT
issues and advances. Majors are also encouraged to conduct research and write articles for professional and
military publications. Obtaining the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is
highly encouraged for AOC 26A and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) for AOC 26B. In addition,
they satisfy information assurance certification requirements for Information Assurance Technician (IAT) and
Information Assurance Manager (IAM) Level III positions. No-cost IT training is available through Army
eLearning (Skillport) (https://usarmy.skillport.com), LandWarNet (https://lwn.army.mil), the Federal Virtual
Training Environment (https://fedvte.usalearning.gov/), and Army Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL)
at https://www.cool.osd.mil/army/index.htm. Additional cost and no-cost civilian IT training and education
courses are available via the internet. In addition, some candidates may pursue a graduate degree in a STEM
discipline but prefer an IT-related discipline.
Desired Experience.
(1)
AOC 26A majors should demonstrate competency and advanced skills in network
engineering, assessment, managing, planning, and experience in conducting current network operations and
defending/securing networks. In addition, field grade development should enable AOC 26As to hone
knowledge, skills, and abilities in accurately evaluating technologies and preparing technical specification
documents based on these evaluations. Successful completion of ILE and 24 to 36 months of experience in
increasing responsibility and professional development assignments will prepare majors for service as a
lieutenant colonel.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
8
(2)
AOC 26B majors should demonstrate advanced competency in implementing and maintaining
local area networks, developing, and planning IT architectures, and implementing information assurance
concepts and principles. Field grade development should enable AOC 26Bs to hone knowledge, skills, and
abilities to perform system analysis, develop response procedures, perform accreditation processes, and
integrate IT systems in all JADO environments. Successful completion of ILE and 24 to 36 months of
experience in increasing responsibility and professional development assignments will prepare majors for
service as a lieutenant colonel.
(5)
Lieutenant Colonel.
Education. There is no additional educational requirement. However, a Master’s of Science
degree in an IT-related field is highly encouraged. Successful completion of JPME II is desired.
Typical Developmental Assignments. All FA 26 lieutenant colonel positions are considered key
developmental (KD) assignments. Certain positions are designated as Key Nominative Billets (KNB) or
Centralized Selection List (CSL) billets, and officers are centrally selected to fill these positions. Eligible officers
will be notified by MILPER message, and all are encouraged to compete when in the zone of consideration for
these assignments. Officers should strive to complete an aggregate of 24 to 36 months in typical developmental
assignments before consideration for more senior lieutenant colonel broadening assignments. Typical
developmental or KNB/CSL (*) assignments at lieutenant colonel include:
(1)
AOC 26A and AOC 26B.
(i)
*Commander,
2nd
Information
Operations
Battalion
(ii)
*Director,
Regional
Cyber
Center
(RCC)
(2)
AOC 26A.
(i)
2d
Information
Operations
Battalion
(ii)
Chief Network Sys Engr in a Signal Brigade, Regional Cyber Center (RCC),
NETCOM, ARCYBER, DISA, Corps, ASCC, COCOM, Joint, DOD Level
(iii)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(iv)
The Office of the Chief Information Officer
(v)
USA Joint Modernization Command (JMC), Chief, Network & Cyber Branch
(vi)
USA Operational Test Command, Sr Test Officer
(vii)
USA
Artificial
Intelligence
Integration
(3)
AOC 26B.
(i)
2nd IO BN, Detachment Chief, Cyber OPFOR
(ii)
Chief Info Assurance Officer at DISA, Corps
(iii)
Chief Info Sys Engr in a Signal BDE, NETCOM, DISA, Corps, ASCC, or higher
commands
(iv)
Cyberspace
Operations
and
Integration
Center
(v)
The Office of the Chief Information Officer
(vi)
USA Joint Modernization Command (JMC), Branch Chief MSN CMD SYS & APPS
(vii)
John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, G6/CIO
(viii)
National
Defense
University
Military
Faculty
Broadening Assignments. Generally, FA 26 lieutenant colonels should continue to seek repetitive
assignments in their AOC, striving for various experiences at different levels of operation and concentrating
their professional development in network systems engineering and information systems engineering. At
lieutenant colonel, FA 26 officers may obtain broadening experience through TWI and Army fellowships. Select
AOC 26B officers may serve broadening assignments within branch immaterial positions or related cross-
branch/FA positions within the Signal Regiment. Based upon requirements, AOC 26A lieutenant colonels might
be selected as Professors of Military Science. In addition, some AOC 26B lieutenant colonels may be chosen
to participate in an IT-related Ph.D. program. All FA 26 officers are encouraged to seek
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
9
broadening opportunities that enhance the officers’ understanding of the global network environment associated with
JADO assignments to include achieving Joint Qualified Officer status. Additional education opportunities
include the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Service Chiefs Internship and other Army-supported
education/fellowship programs.
Self-development. AOC 26A Lieutenant colonels should pursue aggressive self-development
through graduate-level education, industry certifications, and completion of online training and courses related
to networking, computer science, cyberspace operations, cybersecurity, and other relevant disciplines.
Lieutenant colonels need to stay current on industry trends through trade associations, journals, and
participation in DOD and industry-sponsored forums focused on evolving IT issues and advancements.
Lieutenant colonels are also encouraged to research and write articles for professional and military
publications. AOC 26B lieutenant colonels should complete the CIO, or CISO course offered free by the
National Defense University, iCollege either in resident or nonresident attendance. No-cost IT training is
available through Army eLearning (Skillport) (https://usarmy.skillport.com), LandWarNet (https://lwn.army.mil),
and the Federal Virtual Training Environment (https://fedvte.usalearning.gov/). It is also encouraged that
officers obtain the Information Technology Infrastructure Library Foundations certification. Additional cost and
no-cost IT training and education courses are available via the internet and Army Credentialing Opportunities
On-Line (COOL) at https://www.cool.osd.mil/army/index.htm. Some officers may pursue a Ph.D. in a STEM
discipline but prefer an IT-related discipline.
Desired Experience.
(1) AOC 26A lieutenant colonels should demonstrate a high degree and mastery of
telecommunications systems engineering. AOC 26A officers in the grade of lieutenant colonel serve as senior
leaders and managers throughout the Army providing technical engineering guidance, applying network
integration experience, emerging technology vision, and overall Soldier mentorship mastered over many years
in uniform as a network engineer. It is expected that assignments of increasing responsibility will continue to
enhance their leadership skills and technical competencies in leading, managing, and integrating enterprise-
wide communications networks and information services for the Army and JADO organizations. Twenty-four
(24) to thirty-six (36) months of experience in assignments of increasing responsibility will prepare lieutenant
colonels for selection to colonel.
(2) AOC 26B lieutenant colonels should continue to broaden their experiences and seek
assignments that enhance their technical skills, knowledge, and executive leadership abilities. They are
generally assigned to senior leadership and staff positions to fully use their Army knowledge and their
information systems engineering experience. AOC 26B lieutenant colonels should strive to serve in
assignments that will broaden their previous experience through leading organizations that provide information
systems and services throughout the Army and JADO organizations. They should demonstrate competencies
in performing system analysis, developing and planning IT architectures, implementing information assurance
concepts and principles, developing response procedures, performing accreditation processes, and integrating
IT systems with JADO organizations. Successful completion of ILE and 24 to 36 months of experience in
increasing responsibility and professional development assignments will prepare AOC 26B lieutenant colonels
for service as a colonel.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
11
Figure
2.
AC
AOC
26B
Information
Systems
Engineering
Development
Model
For a comprehensive list of operational assignments, visit the Army Career Tracker (ACT) website
https://actnow.army.mil/
and PAM 611-21.
d.
Information
Network
Engineering
(AOC
26Z)
Development.
(1)
Colonels.
Education. Required industry certificates include Information Technology Infrastructure Library
(ITIL) Foundations. AOC 26Z colonels should complete SSC either resident or nonresident. Successful
completion of JPME II is desired.
Typical Developmental Assignments. All AOC 26Z colonel positions are considered key
developmental (KD) assignments. Certain positions are designated as Key Nominative Billets (KNB), and
officers are centrally selected to fill these positions. Eligible officers will be notified by MILPER message and
are encouraged to compete within the zone of consideration for these assignments. Officers should strive to
complete an aggregate of 24 to 36 months in typical developmental assignments before considering them for
more senior colonel broadening assignments. Typical developmental or KNB (*) assignments at colonel
include:
(i)
*Commander,
Command
and
Control
Support
Agency,
HQDA
G3/5/7.
(ii)
*TRADOC
Proponent
Office
Army
Training
Information
Systems
(TPO
ATIS).
(iii)
Chief, Tactical Network Integration Division, The Office of Deputy Chief of Staff, G6
(iv)
CIO/CTO at Army Staff
(v)
CIO/CTO at Joint Staff
(vi)
Commander
at
NATO
Communications
and
Information
Agency
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
12
(vii)
Director/Deputy Director at ACOM / ASCC / DRU / HQDA / Joint / DOD level /
Multinational
(viii)
Division Chief, Plans & Strategy, The Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)
(ix)
Executive assistant at ACOM / ASCC / DRU / HQDA / Joint / DOD level /
Multinational
(x)
G6, Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE)
(xi)
Senior staff analyst at ACOM / ASCC / DRU / HQDA / Joint / DOD level /
Multinational
(xii)
USA
Communication
Info
System
Activity,
Pacific
(xiii)
USA Inspector General Agency
Broadening Assignments. AOC 26Z colonels should serve in AOC 26Z or AOC 25Z assignments
striving to achieve a variety of engineering and executive-level leadership experiences in Army, joint, and
multinational organizations. Additionally, selected officers may serve broadening assignments within branch
immaterial positions or related cross-branch/FA positions. Joint experience is essential to the Army and is
highly
desirable for individual officers to compete for advancement into senior leadership positions.
Self-development. All AOC 26Z colonels should continue to pursue continuing graduate-level
education and industry certifications. Officers also need to stay current on industry trends through trade
associations, journals, and participation in DOD and industry-sponsored forums focused on evolving IT issues
and advances. Some candidates may pursue completion of a Ph.D. in an IT-related discipline.
Desired Experience. As senior practitioners in AOC 26Z, colonels constitute the elite of the
Information Network Engineering officer corps. Their years of accumulated training, education, and progressive
assignments include a level of expertise that enables them to serve in executive-level leadership positions on
ACOM/ASCC/DRU, HQDA, joint, and DOD staff. The AOC 26Z colonels should strive for assignments that
balance and round out their field grade experience with a mix of tactical, operational, and strategic
assignments. Selected officers may be assigned to high-performance AOC 26Z colonel positions as
determined by the Chief of Staff of the Army. Successful completion of SSC plus 24 to 36 months of AOC 26Z
experience will prepare colonels for service at the next higher grade. Field grade assignments should include
Army Staff, joint, and operational deployment experiences to be competitive for selection to general officer.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
13
Figure
3.
AC
AOC
26Z
Information
Network
Engineering
Development
Model
For a comprehensive list of operational assignments, visit the Army Career Tracker (ACT) website
https://actnow.army.mil/
and PAM 611-21.
4.
Information
Network
Engineering
Reserve
Component Officers.
a.
General Career Development. The Army National Guard (ARNG) and United States Army Reserve (USAR)
Information Network Engineering officers serve the same role and mission as their active component (AC
counterparts. However, the unique nature of the reserve component (RC) Soldier’s role as a “Citizen Soldier”
poses a significant professional development challenge. To fulfill their wartime mission of providing the
communications network and information services necessary at all levels of command in support of the unified
land operation, Functional Area (FA) 26 officers rely upon extensive interaction between the AC and the RC,
maintaining skills through civilian education, industry organizations and certifications, and online collaboration
tools.
b.
FA
26
Qualification
and
Development
Opportunities.
(1)
Geographic Dispersion. The geographic dispersion of Information Network Engineering positions
constrains RC career progression in FA 26. As a result, few RC FA 26 officers will achieve the minimum career
progression goals of the AA. RC FA 26 officers should be willing to rotate between assignments with USAR
Troop Program Units (TPU) organizations, ARNG units, and Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) positions
to meet professional development objectives. Typically, there will be an insufficient number of positions within
a geographic area to serve continuously in FA 26 assignments. In the event geographic constraints are such
that assignment to an FA 26 position is not possible, officers should seek an assignment in their basic branch
or a related FA required in the geographic region.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
14
(2)
Assignments. Information Network Engineering officer assignments in the RC are split almost evenly
between TOE and TDA organizations. Their duties and responsibilities are fundamentally the same as their AC
counterparts except for those personnel management, administrative and operational requirements unique to
the ARNG and USAR. Officers may be assigned to the IRR when unable to accept a TPU or ARNG unit
assignment. Officers in the IRR may request assignment to a reinforcement-training unit, an IMA position, a
tour of active duty for special work, annual training, or active duty for training. Officers in the Individual Ready
Reserve (IRR) may meet Professional Military Education (PME) requirements by requesting active duty for
training. All RC officers, major and below with less than 15 years of active Federal service, may request Active
Guard Reserve (AGR) assignment.
(3)
Guidance. USAR officers should seek the advice of the senior personnel management advisor for
more information on current authorizations, schooling, and career development. In addition, the ARNG officers
are advised to contact their respective state senior signal officer (J-6) and personnel management office.
Another source of information is the Reserve Component Affairs Office (RCAO) Deputy Assistant
Commandants for USAR and ARNG affairs located at Fort Gordon. This office maintains a Web page on the
AKO with current information and points of contact.
c.
Professional Development. There are four phases of professional development for RC Information Network
Engineering officers. The phases related to the military rank includes broadly based goals and career
objectives at each rank so that an officer may expand capabilities and optimize performance. Information
Network Engineering life-cycle development objectives, RC requirements, and an officer’s strengths, priorities,
civilian experience, private and service provided education, and performance influence their professional
development. Additionally, all FA 26 RC Officers must qualify for a Top-Secret/Special Compartmented
Information (TS/SCI) security clearance eligibility effective 1 October 2012 for all new accessions into FA 26.
Current FA 26 RC officers must obtain a TS/SCI security eligibility effective 1 October 2017 for all officers
classified in FA 26B prior to 1 October 2012. FA 26 officers should immediately obtain a TSC/SCI security
clearance upon functional designation into Network Systems Engineering (AOC 26A) or Information Systems
Engineer (AOC 26B) functional area designation. Officers will be transferred back to their basic branch who
cannot obtain or maintain this requirement.
(1)
Captain.
AOC 26A. The AOC 26A RC officer candidates have the exact prerequisites as the AC. In addition,
they must have completed their basic branch CCC prior to development in AOC 26A, preferably the SCCC.
Initial functional area qualification requires successful completion of the Information Systems Engineering
Course (ISEC), followed by the Network Systems Engineering Course (NSEC). Attendance at the ISEC may be
waived based on prior equivalent education/experience. Typical TOE positions include communication,
electronics engineer, and systems engineer staff officer. Typical TDA positions include signal support officer,
systems engineer, and communications-electronics staff officer. Note: The CCC is required for promotion to
major.
AOC 26B. The AOC 26B RC officer candidates have the same perquisites as the AC. They must
have an undergraduate or graduate degree in information systems management, computer systems
management, information assurance, computer science, computer systems engineering, IT management, or
a related discipline. They must also have completed their basic branch CCC prior to development in AOC 26B,
preferably the Signal CCC. Initial functional area qualification requires successful completion of the Information
Systems Management Course phases 1 and 2. Typical developmental assignments include Systems
Engineering officer in tactical organizations at brigade, division, corps, higher levels, and strategic and
sustainment organizations. Note: The CCC is required for promotion to major.
(2)
Major.
AOC 26A. The primary development objective of an AOC 26A major in the RC is to strengthen
network systems engineering skills. During this phase, officers must complete ILE Common Core for promotion
to lieutenant colonel. AOC 26A majors are highly encouraged to pursue a specialty-related graduate degree
and obtain a professional engineering license. Network Systems Engineering majors should serve a minimum
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
15
of 24 months cumulative service in a Network Systems Engineering operations or operational support major
position.
AOC 26B. The primary professional development objective of an AOC 26B major in the RC is
to strengthen information systems engineering knowledge, skills, and behaviors. During this phase, officers
must complete ILE Common Core for promotion to lieutenant colonel. In addition, AOC 26B majors are highly
encouraged to pursue a specialty-related graduate degree and obtain professional certifications from the IT
industry. Information Systems Engineering majors should serve a minimum of 24 to 36 months of cumulative
service in one or more AOC 26B positions.
(3)
Lieutenant Colonel.
AOC 26A. Lieutenant colonels can assign senior staff positions in various diverse and challenging
FA-related positions. AOC 26A officers should seek PME at the SSC level. Network Systems Engineering RC
Lieutenant Colonels are eligible for selection to the rank of colonel upon completion of the requisite service
requirements listed in Part One of DA PAM 600-3. Lieutenant colonels remain eligible for the promotion if they
continue to serve active status and meet selection criteria. AOC 26A Lieutenant colonels should serve a
minimum of 48 months cumulative service in a Network Systems Engineering Support position.
AOC 26B. Lieutenant colonels can assign senior staff positions in various diverse and challenging
FA-related positions. AOC 26B officers should seek PME at the SSC level. Information Systems Engineering
RC lieutenant colonels are eligible for selection to the rank of colonel upon completion of the requisite service
requirements listed in Part One of DA PAM 600-3. Lieutenant colonels remain eligible for the promotion if they
continue to serve active status and meet selection criteria. AOC 26B lieutenant colonels should serve a minimum
of
48 to 60 months of cumulative service in AOC 26B positions.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
17
Figure
5.
RC
AOC
26B
Information
Systems
Engineering
Development
Model
For a comprehensive list of operational assignments, visit the Army Career Tracker (ACT) website
https://actnow.army.mil/.
(4)
Colonel.
AOC 26Z Colonel. During this phase, the primary objective for officers is maximum use of the
officer’s technical and tactical capabilities, managerial skills, and executive skills in positions of higher
responsibility. RC Information Systems Engineering colonels should serve a minimum of 72 months of cumulative
service in AOC 26A or AOC 26B positions.
Information
Network
Engineering
– 8 Aug 2022
18
Figure
6.
RC
AOC
26Z
Information
Network
Engineering
Development
Model
For a comprehensive list of operational assignments, visit the Army Career Tracker (ACT) website
https://actnow.army.mil/.
d.
Constructive Credit. RC officers (captain and above) who acquire 26A Network System Engineering or
26B Information Systems Engineering knowledge, skills, and behaviors through civilian industry experience or
education and training may apply for constructive credit and award of the AOC 26A or AOC 26B functional
designation. Officers may apply for constructive credit through the Office Chief of Signal (Proponent Office) at
Fort Gordon, GA.
