What is the first step in the ESWS qualification process?

The first step in the ESWS qualification process is the completion of a qualification checklist. This checklist serves as a foundational document outlining the necessary competencies, knowledge, and skills required for the qualification. By completing the checklist, a Sailor can ensure they are prepared and meet the specific requirements set forth by the program before proceeding to further steps, such as practical examinations or submitting qualification applications. The checklist not only guides the individual on what is expected but also captures the necessary training and experience, creating a structured path toward achieving the ESWS designation.

Other choices, while relevant to the qualification process, come after the checklist phase. For instance, attending an introductory briefing could provide necessary orientation, but it doesn't establish the qualification requirements themselves. Completing a practical examination tests the competencies that the checklist identifies but does not kick off the qualification process. Submitting a qualification application is often a later step that indicates readiness after the checklist has been thoroughly addressed.