Within each Navy detailer brief there is a nominal, legacy, or MK1 MOD 0 career brief which outlines the timelines, requirements, qualifications, and expectations to complete a "successful" career in that Navy warfare area. The message from the community managers outlines the most likely path to travel in order to be promoted with one's year-group and to position you for a Navy command and promotion to the rank of captain. This book, Career Compass, is intended to support this idea, with the purpose of pointing to and highlighting the principles that could keep every officer eligible and competitive for promotion and command, while being competent and capable in performing the necessary duties supporting the requirements of the Naval service. Whether one's aspirations include a long-term service ending in a military retirement or completion of an obligated service and a move into industry or government, having a plan to reach a personal goal is important to ensure having the requisite experience and expertise to be competitive for positions leading to the goal, however, sticking strictly to an original plan amidst constantly changing circumstances is probably not a good idea. Considering the triad of detailing; the needs of the Navy, promotion opportunities within a warfare community, and personal family goals are all going to change over time. The nominal career path may not be what is right for you and, as presented in this text, you should regularly communicate with your family and the resources within your command, your warfare community, and the Navy Personnel Command to keep on a path that is pointed to your true North. Career Compass is about planning, and re-planning. It is about seeing opportunities and being prepared to successfully navigate the challenges ahead.

Your service in the Navy is important to your family and our nation. You should have career and life goals in mind and an informed plan to achieve those goals. Hopefully, you will be aided in that quest with elements of this text.