Lateral Transfers

“The lateral transfer and redesignation process is a key tool by which the Navy manages officer talent. It provides flexibility in officer community manning and improves the Navy return on investment in officer training and education by leveraging the specialized skillsets of officers throughout their careers.”

Twice a year, the Navy convenes a Lateral Transfer and Redesignation Board, which is an opportunity to laterally transfer to a specific community within the IWC. If you wanted an IWC community as a Midshipmen, but didn’t get it, you are more than likely still competitive for lateral transfer. Note that some communities are harder to get “released” from than others. Intra-IWC lateral transfers are uncommon, but not unprecedented.