About the Course

SGM-A, located in Fort Bliss, TX is the world’s premier institution for the education of non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and is accredited as an academic Institution of Excellence. It provides the tools to develop critical reasoning, creative thinking and decision-making skills. Senior Enlisted Leaders are provided an education that teaches them to enhance their character, self-expression, and strengthen teamwork abilities. This course assists in the development of logical, practical and original reasoning abilities necessary for problem solving. Students analyze problems based on available information, arrive at logical solutions and decisions with reasonable speed, communicate reasoning and decisions orally and in writing, and supervise to ensure proper execution. Intellectual honesty, integrity, and professional values and standards are highly stressed. The Academy is headed by a three-star level nominative command sergeant major and is supported by a world class staff and faculty.

Program Length: 10 Months

Report Date: 15 JUL 2025

Graduation Date:  15 JUN 2026

SGM-A is accredited by the American Council of Education (ACE).

Members that successfully complete this course of study earn the following Undergraduate Lower Level (LL) and Upper Level (UL).

Prerequisites

1. Pay grade E-8 or an E-7 advancing to E-8.
2. Be a graduate of the Chief Petty Officers Academy (CPOACAD) or approved DOD equivalent.
3. Physically capable of passing the Boat Crew Fitness Test and participate in the Army Physical Readiness Training Program.  Information about the Army Physical Readiness Training Program can be accessed at: http://www.armyprt.com/. Scores and results must be documented in command-endorsed application.
4. Present a sharp, trim, and fit military appearance.
5. Be actively involved in the Chief's Mess.  Involvement needs to be documented in command-endorsed application.
6. Diverse career assignment history.
7. Willing and able to obligate required service.  

Application Requirements

1. Members must submit a "My Panel" submission with a command endorsement in Direct Access.  
2. Members should ensure the following are specifically addressed in their submission comments:
   1. Statement about why you would like to attend the program and why you are the ideal candidate to represent the organization.
   2. How your attendance at the program will benefit the Service and the Commandant's Direction.
3. The command endorsement must address the following:
   1. Statement that member has met the physical fitness standards listed under the eligibility requirements (Include member's Boat Crew Fitness scores and results).
   2. Member's performance, leadership abilities, and CPO Mess participation.
   3. Member's potential for increased responsibility and leadership positions.
4. Application Deadline: 14 JUL 24
5. Panel Date: 05 AUG 24

Program Manager

SCPO Joe Hoff, email Joseph.R.Hoff@uscg.mil

More Information

For SGM-Aspecific information about course expectations, critical success factors, and personal experiences, contact the following SGM-A Alumni:

MCPO Stephen Siraco: Email: Stephen.P.Siraco@uscg.mil, Phone: 617-406-8263

MCPO Michael Farrell: Email: Michael.V.Farrell2@uscg.mil, Phone: 202-793-0603