The Marine Corps published MARADMIN 422/26 to clarify what Utilities Occupational Field GySgts need to be promoted. The bottom line: if you're in-zone and don't have the 1169 Utilities Chief PMOS, you won't be in the promotion board population at all. This applies to both active duty and RC Marines.
Bottom line: Utilities GySgts who are in-zone for promotion without the 1169 PMOS will not be considered by the promotion board.
Who it affects
Utilities Occupational Field GySgts, active duty and Reserve Component, who are in or approaching their promotion zone. SSgts in the Utilities field aren't required to attend yet, but are encouraged to go and get ahead of it.
What you need to do
If you are a Utilities GySgt:
- Confirm whether you hold the 1169 PMOS. Check with your S-1 or career counselor if you're unsure.
- If you don't have it, you must complete the Utilities Chief Course (UCC), Course ID
M0311E2, to earn it. - Talk to your commander about getting a school seat prioritized before your promotion window opens.
If you are a leader or SNCO: counsel any affected GySgts and eligible SSgts on this requirement now. Commanders are specifically called out as responsible for prioritizing school seats to prevent Marines from being locked out of the board.
Key dates
- No specific deadline is listed in the MARADMIN. The requirement is tied to your individual promotion zone window. Don't wait until you're in-zone to start the process.
The official version
References: NAVMC 1200.1M (2026), the MOS Manual; MCO P1400.32D w/ CH 2, the Marine Corps Promotion Manual, Volume 2.
POCs: CWO5 Oneil Gonzales, Utilities Occupational Field Manager, oneil.gonzales@usmc.mil, 703-693-4920. MGySgt Alex Barros, Utilities MOS Specialist, alex.barros@usmc.mil, 571-256-7160.
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.