Moms of Daughters who have a "Rate" of "Machinist Mate"

[Kimi (mom of Kriston)]

Hello:

I am wondering if there are any moms out there that have daughters who are either already working with a rate of "Machinist Mate" or have daughters in training or are planning to go in as "Machinist Mate." I really need to discuss this rate with those that already have an understanding of this field in the Navy. I have concerns about it and I am hoping to alleviate those concerns.

Looking forward to reading replies.

Kathy (kimi)

[Viki]

My daughter was signed up for this, but half way thru bootcamp, they did an eye test and she failed cause of depth perception. Now she is in cryptology school and already shot up to petty officer!

[Brenda C.]

My daughter was also recently named a Machinist Mate and share your concerns. We are new to the Navy, my husband was in the Army (nasty word here?). My daughter's PIR is soon and I am greatly looking forward to seeing her, as I am sure all moms are.

Brenda

[KCHRIS01]

Hi, how are you. I am a machinists mate, and your concerns are very legitimate and your research is extremely accurate. Had i known this before i joined i definately would have chosen a different rate, the working hours are long, and it is a different world "down there" if they were to put her in MP division (main propulsion- keep in mind i am on a steam ship). They could also put her into A-gang which is all aux. equiptment, and they have it better, but when you get to a ship its all about the needs of the navy, they put you where they need you. I am a very strong female, from new york, and it is very possible that i have just had a bad experience, myself but most women that i have been on the ship with, get pregnant, just to get out of the engine room, when i came to my current ship (jan 08), there were 4 females in my division, and i am the last one standing, of them, since then we have one other female, as well. since were down there together we make it a little easier on eachother, but it mainly and i hate to say it, is a man's world. i would recommend your daughter try to change to a different rate if possible, im sorry i do not mean to worry you, but i saw that you had posted this on here, which is why i joined. any other questions you may have i will be able to answer hopefully i have been somewhat of help.

[Becky]

Hi Kimi. My daughter is a GSM (gas systems Mechanic) She has been in 2 years and loves it. she had no prtor mechanica; experiance, but she loves what she is doing!She works vey close with MMs.Check out the Snipe groups there should be people there who can answer your questions

[Margie]

My daughter joined the Navy and said she was going to be a Machinest Mate as well. When I asked her why that field she said it was because her recruiter told her that if she wanted to be in the medical field (her primary interest) she wouldn't be leaving for Basic Training until next year sometime. He also told her she could cross over to another field after she was in, maybe even in the middle of boot camp. I HOPE SO!! As a mom, I hate to think of her doing this kind of job just for the sake of being in the Navy and the security that they have to offer in this bad economy.

This has been a very hard transistion for me - she's my youngest and I really miss her!! She's a strong young lady so I'm confident she can handle it.