Army Acquisition Workforce Career Development

 

Explore the resources tailored to your career path and take the next step in your journey.

Welcome to the central resource for career development within the Army Acquisition Workforce (AAW). Whether you are a Civilian, Officer, or Noncommissioned Officer (NCO), this page is your gateway to a wealth of opportunities for professional growth and advancement. The Army’s success depends on the continuous development of our talented acquisition professionals.

Civilian 

As a civilian member of the Army Acquisition Workforce, you are integral to every aspect of the acquisition lifecycle. From engineering and testing to program management and sustainment, your contributions ensure the readiness of the U.S. Army. The Army DACM Office is committed to providing you with the tools and guidance necessary to build a successful and rewarding career. 

Civilian Career Development Opportunities 

The Army DACM Office provides a variety of programs and resources to support your career growth. These include: 

  • Civilian Career Models: Notional guides for professional growth and a well-rounded experience in your Acquisition Functional Area.  
  • Civilian Career Planning Steps: A step-by-step guide to managing your acquisition career, from preparing your Acquisition Career Record Brief (ACRB) to applying for certification.  
  • Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Certification: Information and resources to help you meet your certification requirements.  
  • Leader Development and Education Programs: See all available programs for AAW professionals in all stages of your career.  

Innovate and Excel as a Civilian Acquisition Professional

Officer

As a Commissioned Officer in the Army Acquisition Corps, you are a leader in a complex and dynamic field. Your professional development is critical to the success of the Army’s acquisition enterprise. The Army DACM Office is dedicated to providing you with the opportunities and support you need to excel in your career. 

Officer Career Development Opportunities

Officers have access to a range of programs and resources to enhance their careers, including: 

  • Officer Onboarding and Career Planning: A comprehensive guide for active component, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard officers on career and assignments management. 
  • Officer Development Model: A model that outlines the experience, education, and training required for Defense Acquisition Workforce Initiative Act (DAWIA) certification.  
  • Operational and Broadening Assignments: Opportunities to develop Army acquisition officers’ capabilities and prepare you for positions of increased responsibility.  
  • Leader Development and Education Programs: See all available programs for acquisition officers in all stages of your career. 

Lead the Mission as an Acquisition Officer: 

NCO

As a Noncommissioned Officer in the Army Acquisition Workforce, you play a vital role in contingency contracting and supporting Army, joint, and coalition forces. Your expertise and leadership are essential to our mission. The Army DACM Office is committed to your professional development and providing you with the resources to advance in your career. 

NCO Career Development Opportunities

NCOs can take advantage of several programs and resources to further their careers: 

  • 51C Reclassification: Information on reclassification to Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 51C, contracting NCO. 
  • NCO Onboarding and Career Planning: Information and resources for NCOs to manage their careers in the contracting Acquisition Functional Area. 
  • Acquisition Training and Certification: Resources to help you meet your acquisition training and certification requirements. 
  • Broadening Positions: Opportunities to serve in positions outside of your career field to gain new experiences and skills.  

Drive the Force as an Acquisition NCO: