Episode #45: From MP to Commander: ROTC, Deployment, and Owning Your Career Path

In this episode, Mickey sits down with CPT Taylor Scroggins—company commander (Bravo 1108) and member of the Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce (IPPW). They talk ASVAB origin stories, choosing an MOS with intention, what ROTC and Advanced Camp really look like, and how being proactive (instead of reactive) can change everything—from range safety to career progression to unit readiness. What you’ll hear in this episode A range-day story that shows what “real leadership” looks like when safety standards matter CPT Scroggins’ ASVAB experience: scoring a 61, not studying, and getting recruited straight out of JROTC How she chose 31B (Military Police): “Show me the full list of jobs I qualify for” MP training realities (yes—spray and taser) and what Guard-life as an MP actually felt like ROTC explained: SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program), skipping early years, and the real cadence of classes + labs Advanced Camp at Fort Knox: what happens, what people struggle with, and how ROTC programs can set cadets up to fail Commissioning traditions (first salute) and why her grandfather was an unforgettable part of her story Leadership fast-track: going straight to XO because of officer shortages—and doing the work even when it’s “unrated” Being sent to an FSC (Forward Support Company) and still getting stuck as “acting XO” Deployment to Germany supporting the mission training Ukrainians (CPT Scroggins in SPO / logistics support) The career “binder” strategy: KD positions, broadening assignments, promotion points, and having a plan A wild moment: getting offered a TAC job… and walking out as the new S4 instead MDMP under pressure: solving a real statewide readiness problem with a tiny, brand-new staff IPPW explained: using D-IoX survey data to identify risk/protective factors and intervene before issues escalate Why intentionality keeps showing up in her story—from MOS selection to command Key takeaways Don’t let someone else pick your career for you—start with the full list, then decide. The earlier you get intentional, the more leverage you have with opportunities later. Great leaders keep standards (like safety) even when it’s inconvenient. Prevention work matters: improving climate and connectedness can reduce risks before they become incidents. Resources mentioned ASVAB Domination Podcast ROTC / SMP (Simultaneous Membership Program) MDMP (Military Decision Making Process) Operational Readiness (OR rate) concepts D-IoX survey and IPPW (Integrated Primary Prevention Workforce) Guest contact (as shared in the episode)CPT Taylor Scroggins (IPPW, Mississippi)Desk phone: (601) 313-6608 Connect / next stepIf you’re ASVAB-bound and want to pick the best job you qualify for (not just “whatever’s available”), follow the show and share this episode with a friend who’s considering enlisting or commissioning. ASVABdomination.com Gamonaltutors.com https://asvabdomination.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Gamonal-Tutors-Podcast-Scroggins.wav