Preparing to Promote with EAP at Naval Hospital Bremerton

By Douglas H Stutz, Naval Hospital Bremerton Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- Naval Hospital Bremerton wrapped up another round of Enlisted Advancement Program (EAP) training August 26-28 in helping to prepare over 150 enlisted personnel for the upcoming September 2014 advancement exams.

According to NHB Command Master Chief Randy Pruitt, there is statistical evidence that Sailors who invest their time and energy into being part of EAP training fare better on an advancement exam.

"Statistics show that seven percent of hospital corpsmen advance during an advancement cycle, but EAP almost triples the chances of advancement if they attend the training in some form. So without a doubt, I'm a big fan of it," said Pruitt.

The EAP training is being held over three weeks, each session focusing on the Navy's specific enlisted pay-grades E-4, E-5 and E-6. The training has consisted of study guides, facilitated topics and practical exams. The EAP has also provided test taking techniques, advancement jeopardy quizzes, and supplied the most current and effective study materials.

"Last year was the first time we taught the EAP and we did have an increase in advancement. Those who did advance last year say that it was due to taking the class. EAP is extremely helpful in not only going over topics, but also in focusing on what to study that someone might miss if they just chose to do it on their own. EAP covers it here," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kyle C. Hewitt of NHB's Physical Therapy department and one of the EAP coordinators.

HM2 Sarah Lowe is a strong advocate of the program and her decision to help coordinate was based on her positive experience with the training.

"I'm convinced I advanced due to EAP at my former command. I feel with EAP there are better tools to learn as well to teach to others. Just as it did for me, the EAP can help narrow down specific topics, focus on correct subject matter and help redirect someone when needed," said Lowe, who along with facilitating the course shared insight on preventive medicine and occupational health topics.

There is a strategy to taking a Navy advancement exam attests Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Julian Rodriguez, and the Enlisted Advancement Program can help anyone getting ready for their upcoming advancement exam to map a navigational course to success.

"EAP helps Sailors concentrate and prioritize what they need to study and what they need to know before their advancement exam. As a volunteer instructor, it's my duty and honor to help our Sailors focus on the essential material to get them to pass their exam and make grade," said Rodriguez, adding that the program's benefits also include tips on how to improve study habits, as well as being able to go over corpsmen-centric information and Navy knowledge in a class room environment and group setting.

The training has been conducted at NHB's Branch Health Education Center (BHEC) on Naval Base Kitsap Bangor to ensure the enrolled Sailors were 100 percent free from distractions and work responsibilities.

"The BHEC site has been perfect for EAP. Our Sailors have been able to focus their fullest attention to their studies during the three day course. In fact, we've had so many, we might need to find a bigger classroom," said Hewitt.