Red Lodge student among first to join Montana Tech’s revamped ROTC program
Being one of the first people to sign up for a new program can be intimidating, but when Mathew Erickson of Red Lodge heard that Montana Technological University was bringing back its Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (SROTC) in Fall 2024, he jumped in feet first.
“I’ve always liked the military because my grandpa served,” Erickson said.
The United States Army offers ROTC programs nationwide at more than 1,000 colleges and universities. These programs provide classroom instruction and training from active-duty Army and National Guard officers and enlisted service members in areas of expertise, including military intelligence, aviation, logistics, combat arms, and more. Students can take Military Science and Leadership lower division courses as an elective, without a commitment to service. This allows students to explore service opportunities before committing to service or to take a fun elective course outside their major. Students learn skills that can lead to a successful military or civilian career. Some topics include resiliency, developing and executing a plan, map reading, risk assessment, and mitigation, and much more. Students who continue into upper division courses and/or receive educational funding agree to serve as military officers after completing their degree. Graduates of ROTC programs can enter the Army as highly respected 2nd lieutenants in the Army, Army Reserve, or National Guard. In return, students can get up to 100% of their tuition costs covered, and receive a stipend to assist with living expenses.
As a freshman, Erickson has not yet signed on for tuition benefits or to commission into the military. He’s getting a feel for the program by taking several entry level courses.
“Even if I don't commission into the military, I can learn different leadership skills,” Erickson said. “Today in class we're talking about good communication strategies. That’s valuable no matter what path I take.”
Erickson said his favorite ROTC class so far has been squad tactics. He’s excited to learn more advanced topics. He is studying mining engineering, is a member of Montana Tech’s Mining Team, and is looking forward to summer internship opportunities. He says he’s very pleased with his Montana Tech and ROTC experiences so far.
“Captain Silver Beaty is a great instructor,” Erickson said.
To learn more about ROTC, click here.