This seems like an active forum with some good sailors and I look forward to getting some good feedback from you. I am an IT1 in the reserves looking at making a run back to active duty as a CTN. I understand the overall difficulties with NAVETS coming into active, as well as the difficulties with entering the CTN rate. However, Im confident in my military record and my civilian credentials(A+, Net+, Security+, CCNA, BS in Computer information technology, Network admin for over 5 years). However, I am NOT a network security expert, I know a little-bit and can play with wireshark, and set up a honey pot, but I dont get paid for it. I want to though and thats why the rate is intriguing. It seems like a best of both worlds to me. (navy and nerdy). I have had some very good communications with some decision makers in the community and hopefully that will help me if/when I proceed. I appreciate that its a difficult leap but my larger concern at this point is if I were to take that leap what the quality of life is like for a CTN.
My questions specifically is regarding the daily grind. I have a wife and a few rug-rats. All of whom are no stranger to Navy life, having done multiple deployments when I was previously active and a mob here and there in the reserves.

Do CTN's deploy often? I understand that they do their sea duty overseas, is that correct? In I would assume that the family typically can come? I would also assume like many CT's you do TAD stuff at sea or with other communities, is that frequent and what are the time lines generally like (2 weeks, 1 year, etc.)?

Is it difficult to get orders where you want in conus? ie: norfolk, MD, TX,etc? What is the rotation like? etc.

I guess you can kind of get a feel for what Im looking for and also any other non life-threatening details such as the daily routine at a NIOC and how family friendly the rate is would really be appreciated.

I know its like Im grasping, but something I have learned is that its better to ask and know BEFORE you go

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

Hey I'm a DC3 and i had a friend that was a EN2 and he crossrated to CTN He said he loves it and that they really don't go on ship's but other CT's go on ships but not for too long. I Can Talk With Him and get more info and keep you updated..

Thanks Jonzey, that would be appreciated!

Ok well i did talk to him and he said that he's still in school.. he said the A school was good but now his C school if presenting somewhat of a challenge but if you are dedicated and willing to learn he said it's not too bad lol...