USNA Second-Class Midshipman (2/C) PCA Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Professional Competency Assessment!

The correct choice reflects an opportunity for Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs) to gain command experience in a practical setting early in their careers. Serving as an Executive Officer (XO) or Commanding Officer (CC) for mining operations places a SWO in a leadership role that allows for direct oversight of operations and personnel management. This type of position is crucial for developing the skills needed for higher command responsibilities, as it involves making tactical decisions, leading a team, and ensuring mission success in a specialized area of naval operations.

Other roles mentioned, such as Operations Officer on a joint task force, Director of a naval academy, or Admiral of a fleet, typically involve more senior-level responsibilities and experiences that come after gaining substantial operational command experience. They also may not provide the same level of direct, hands-on leadership and management responsibilities that are essential for early career development in a SWO's professional journey. Hence, the opportunity to command at a mining operation is appropriate for the initial stages of a SWO's career, fostering skills and competencies necessary for future roles.