The key to a successful IST is communication and coordination with your leadership and the unit readiness noncommissioned officer (RNCO). As soon as the need for an IST arises, the Soldier should contact their RNCO. The RNCO will determine if the Soldier is "administratively ready” (i.e., no pending Uniform Code of Military Justice or disciplinary action, flags to medical readiness status, or other administrative issues). Once they are deemed “ready,” the RNCO will then forward the Soldier's information to the state IST coordinator. The IST coordinator will ensure a valid, vacant position exists in the gaining state.
MAKING THE TRANSITION
Once a slot becomes available, the Soldier will receive counseling from the losing unit. This counseling will assist in identifying any issues, concerns or risks that must be addressed prior to the move.
In the event that a vacant slot does not exist in the gaining state, the Soldier may need to discuss reclassing to an available MOS or taking an administrative reduction. The state IST coordinator can discuss available MOS slots within the state for each rank and recommend reclass options based on qualifications and experience.
FINALIZING THE PAPERWORK
Once the Soldier has been placed into a gaining unit, the state IST coordinator will assist the Soldier in completing NGB Form 22, which acknowledges their acceptance into the gaining state after an enlisting officer has sworn them in. Their expiration term of service (ETS) will remain the same, unless sooner discharged by proper authority.
As soon as Soldiers have been sworn in, they'll have 60 days to report to their new unit, and they should contact their new unit of assignment to coordinate training dates and discuss any questions or concerns. Again, IST coordinators can help with this part of the transition.