Hello Lawdog5956!!!
Welcome to the AWS Forum!!!
It's been a long time since I was "in the salt" - so to speak so, I really could'nt give you any current info about today's USN programs...
I will however contact a few of my friends that are more familiar with the current programs that the USN have to offer...
When I get info from them, I'll contact you via e-mail!!!
In the meantime, I would suggest for you to be more persistent in attempting to get into whatever welding program the USN has available only because, the training is second to none!!! If you show your persistence, and determination to the personnel that can open the doors for you, then I believe you'll be given the opportunity to prove yourself!!! Just remember a couple of important principals: NEVER GIVE UP!!! and NEVER TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER!!!
Is this recruiter the only person you spoke to? I ask this because, this person may not be giving it to you straight if you "catch my drift"!!!
For instance, do you know how long it takes just to become a master diver??? I mean, does'nt that sound strange that the recruiter mentioned that you had to be one beforehand???
A source for inspiration would be for you to see the movie:
"Men of Honor"...
Although, you probably already have seen it!!! It may be just what you need to help you convince whoever that you're just as determined to get into the USN salvage diving school or any of the welding programs that the USN has to offer as was the character portrayed by Cuba Gooding jr. was in the movie!!!
Anywho, I'll get back to you ASAP when I get more info...
Good Luck and stick to to those couple of principals I laid out for you!!!
LG!!! Keep showing your persistence and determination because who knows, The doors may open pretty wide after all, entiendo???
Respectfully,
SSBN727 Run Silent... Run Deep!!!
P.S. Did you try getting into the welding school in San Diego?
There are a couple of other members of the forum that have gone through that program and did'nt have to be a "Master Diver" before they were accepted!!! Food for thought...