Update and Extension of the Marine Corps Enlisted Career Designation Program Pilot
This MARADMIN extends and updates the Marine Corps Enlisted Career Designation Program (ECDP) pilot for Fiscal Year 2027, which allows senior enlisted Marines to serve through their Enlisted Career Force Controls date without requiring intermittent reenlistments. The update expands eligibility to Marines with an End of Current Contract before 30 September 2027 who meet specific rank and service requirements at E-8 and E-9 levels.
Issued: April 23, 2026
1. Purpose. This MARADMIN provides an extension and eligibility update to the Enlisted Career Designation Program (ECDP) established by reference (a). The Fiscal Year 2027 ECDP for senior enlisted Marines becomes effective upon release of this MARADMIN. This pilot program is designed to retain our most experienced Marines by offering a pathway to serve through their Enlisted Career Force Controls (ECFC) date without requiring intermittent reenlistments. 2. Eligibility. Marines with an End of Current Contract (ECC) before 30 September 2027 may elect to enter the ECDP at their next reenlistment if they meet one of the following criteria: Marines selected to Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) with at least 15 years of service; or current Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (E-8) and Master Gunnery Sergeant/Sergeant Major (E-9) with either at least two years time in grade or at least 15 years of service. 3. Admin. All other provisions as outlined in reference (a) remain in effect. This MARADMIN only provides updates to the eligibility criteria. 4. Release authorized by Lieutenant General William J. Bowers, Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.