A bit off thread I suppose, but I've never really understood why NCA pass out from training as SNCOs. I see the point in RAFP having A/Cpl rank - they may have to charge people. I don't profess to know much about the training NCA undergo, but I did a 3-year technical apprenticeship (remember them?) which I assume is longer than NCA training and required at least as much if not more intellectual application. I passed out as a J/T and although I was promoted to Cpl. and Sgt. within a year and 4 years respectively after passing out, promotion to Sgt. at least was contingent on above average assessments (including spec recs).