Combat Engineer VS Gunner VS Infantry

Hey everyone,

I’m currently in the recruiting process and I originally chose Combat Engineer as my main trade. My recruiting officer also added Gunner and Infantry just in case Combat Engineer didn’t have positions available, but Infantry is not something I’m really interested in doing.

I spoke with recruiting today and was told there are still around 300 Combat Engineer positions available, but when I logged into my online portal, it only showed Gunner under the positions I applied for. I asked about it and was told I’d likely be placed as a Gunner because Gunner is being backfilled right now, and Combat Engineer isn’t a priority.

That confused me a bit because if there are still Combat Engineer spots available, I don’t really understand why my file would be pushed toward Gunner instead of the trade I actually want.

For context, I’m a 22-year-old male and I currently work in heavy construction, specifically sewer and water. I already do a lot of digging, trench work, and physical labour, so Combat Engineer feels like it would fit my background well. I was also in cadets, so I have some basic military familiarity.

One big reason I’m leaning toward Combat Engineer is the potential for transferable skills if I ever leave the Army, such as heavy equipment, construction-related work, and other practical skills. With Gunner or Infantry, I’m not sure how much would transfer into civilian work the same way.

For anyone who has experience as a Combat Engineer, Gunner, or Infantry, what is the day-to-day actually like? What are the pros and cons of each trade?

Also, has anyone dealt with recruiting pushing you toward a different trade than the one you actually wanted? Should I be firm and tell them I only want Combat Engineer, even if it means waiting longer?

I’m not trying to disrespect any trade. I just want to make the best long-term decision before signing anything.

Oh and I’m right at the end of my application just need an offer now, I passed everything and filled out every paper work there is.