MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. – The U.S. Marine Corps’ Training & Education Command held its very first graduation for the new military occupational specialty Faculty Advisor at Marine Corps University, April 24, 2024.

“The new 0961 faculty advisor MOS is a better tuned process,” said Master Sgt. Saul H. Lopez, a task analyst with TECOM. “It seeks out knowledgeable and personable Marines who understand human dimensions and can articulate information with a more acceptable delivery in teaching, coaching, and mentoring young Marines for a more efficient war fighting organization.”

This new academic MOS identifies staff noncommissioned officers who are professionally trained in understanding and mentoring Marines on personal and professional goals, to include career paths and higher education.

The 16 graduates left the course with a deep understanding of military requirements and academic pursuits, a skillset that can help them navigate the planning process for opportunities that may be available to their Marines in and outside of the Marine Corps. The faculty advisor course is not specific to any MOS and those who meet the criteria are encouraged to apply.