Lead, Mentor, and Shape the Army’s Future Leaders

TAC NCOs and Military Science Instructors are the backbone of West Point’s leader development mission. As senior enlisted leaders, they set the standard for professionalism and character—bridging the gap between officers and cadets while modeling what right looks like every day.

This is a hands-on, high-impact assignment that blends teaching, mentorship, and leadership at the highest level. This position is also instrumental in shaping the military training, accountability, and development of future Army leaders, emphasizing the critical Officer/NCO relationship. 

Serving as a TAC NCO gives you the opportunity to refine your leadership, expand your influence, and build a lasting professional network across branches, institutions, and the Army’s senior leadership—all while leaving a lasting impact on the future officer corps.

A Career-Defining Assignment

This is more than a teaching or mentoring role—it directly shapes the Army’s future.

An assignment at USMA offers unmatched purpose and professional growth. TAC NCOs don’t just enforce standards—they inspire them.

• Direct Impact: Train, mentor, and guide cadets as they grow into Army officers.
• High Influence: Model the values, discipline, and professionalism that define the NCO corps.
• Career Advancement: A top-tier developmental assignment preparing you for Battalion or Brigade CSM roles.
• Educational Enrichment: Participate in the Benavidez Leader Development Program (BLDP)—a 3–4 week executive-level leadership course co-hosted by USMA and Columbia University.

Serving as a TAC NCO strengthens an officers ability to enforce standards, develop future leaders, and operate in a joint officer–NCO environment at the nation’s premier leadership academy. The skills, knowledge, and networks built during this assignment—including participation in BLDP—will prepare an officer to return to the operational force as a more seasoned, adaptable, and effective senior enlisted leader.

Demanding. Rewarding. Unforgettable.

Every day as a TAC NCO or Military Science Instructor is a chance to lead by example and mentor future Army officers.

• Lead and oversee morning PT sessions that build unit cohesion.
• Teach military science and leadership principles in the classroom.
• Supervise training, enforce discipline, and guide cadets through challenges.
• Provide daily mentorship and professional development feedback.
• Serve as a trusted, approachable role model—firm but supportive.

Eligibility & Timeline:

• Rank: Master Sergeant (E-8) or Sergeant Major (E-9)
• Experience: Successful First Sergeant duty or higher, strong NCOERs, and a proven record as a standard-bearer.
• Selection: Competitive nomination process through HRC or senior leaders (typically 1–2 years prior).
• Assignment Length: 3-year tour at West Point.

Sharpen Your Leadership—Develop the Future.

All TAC NCOs at West Point can participate in the Benavidez Leader Development Program, an advanced executive education experience co-hosted by USMA and Teachers College, Columbia University.

• Duration: 3–4 weeks (typically within the first 1–3 years of assignment).
• Focus Areas: Organizational psychology, leadership theory, and developmental frameworks.
• Purpose: Ensures TAC NCOs and TAC Officers share a common leadership language when developing cadets.
• Structure: Combines West Point instruction on leadership studies with Columbia’s graduate-level coursework and a capstone project.

The Bottom Line

Serving as a TAC NCO or Military Science Instructor at West Point is a chance to leave a lasting impact on the Army. You’ll train, mentor, and guide the next generation of leaders—while advancing your own career and deepening your understanding of leadership at the highest level.

You’ll provide hands-on coaching and mentorship during the cadets’ most formative years, while also benefiting from direct engagement with senior leaders committed to your growth as a senior enlisted professional.