I spent 6 years in the Navy instead of pursuing college. I went in with a self-taught background in computers and after I got out I continued to pursue a career in IT. I found several unique aspects of ship-board Navy life, compared to other branches, that could make a difference for an IT person.
When you're in the middle of the ocean you cannot just call over the next hill for additional supplies or expertise. You have to make do with what you have and what you know. It also means that your troubleshooting skills must be honed.
During long stretches at sea, entertainment is limited to what's onboard. For an IT person, this isolation can be ideal for learning or tinkering to improve one's skills. I found the time useful for reading manuals and fixing my shipmates' broken gear.
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When you're in the middle of the ocean you cannot just call over the next hill for additional supplies or expertise. You have to make do with what you have and what you know. It also means that your troubleshooting skills must be honed.
During long stretches at sea, entertainment is limited to what's onboard. For an IT person, this isolation can be ideal for learning or tinkering to improve one's skills. I found the time useful for reading manuals and fixing my shipmates' broken gear.