Marine Corps Launches Talent Acquisition Pilot for Cyber, Signals Intel  

QUANTICO, Va. — Manpower and Reserve Affairs announced the Marine Corps Talent Acquisition Pilot (MCTAP) program today, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at identifying and recruiting highly skilled individuals to fill critical roles within the active and reserve components of the 1721 Cyberspace Warfare Operator military occupational specialty and the active component of the 2629 Signals Intelligence Collection Manager MOS.  The two-year pilot program commences June 2024.  

As a 21st century fighting organization, the Marine Corps must creatively and critically address how to employ talent. The MCTAP explores a pathway for exceptionally talented Americans to join the service at a rank appropriate for their education and experience, up to Gunnery Sergeant, in two pre-determined fields.     

“The time and investment in identifying, acquiring, and developing talent is significant, especially in these fields,” said Lt. Gen. James Glynn, deputy commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs. “This initiative enhances readiness and contributes to lethality by leveraging proven private sector talent to rapidly meet critical areas of capability.”  

All applicants accepted into the pilot with no prior Marine Corps experience will complete Marine Corps recruit training and earn the title of Marine.  Applicants who previously served in the Marine Corps as successful graduates of recruit training will not be required to retrain.   

“For those who have acquired the skills outlined in this MARADMIN and feel called to serve the Nation in uniform, I look forward to your applications,” said Glynn. “Join our prestigious team; we have a place for you.”  

Read Marine Administrative Message 253/24 for more information and how to apply.