Answer the Call. Become an Argyll.
Experience rigorous training, strong camaraderie, and meaningful service. Grow as a leader, defender, and valued member of Canada’s proud military heritage.
Find out the basic requirements to join The Argylls, and take the first step toward becoming part of our enduring legacy.
Age 16 to 57 years old. Applicants under 18 require parental or guardian consent
Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Completed at least Grade 10 or, if you are applying to be an officer, enrolled in a university undergraduate degree programme or have completed one
Meet Canadian Armed Forces medical and basic fitness standards
Attend Wednesday training nights and scheduled training exercises
Go to www.forces.ca to create a profile, select your preferred trade and unit, and fill in the application.
When asked to enter your Reserve Unit of choice, select The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada.
When prompted for the Unit Identification Code (UIC), enter 5116.
At sixteen, searching for a summer job, I was encouraged to join the army reserves—a decision that would change the course of my life.
From day one, I was struck by how the uniform erased social differences. No matter where we came from in the city, we looked the same, stood the same, and worked toward the same goal. It was my first real experience of equality and teamwork.
Initially, I saw it as just a part-time job. But as I advanced to the rank of corporal and began non-commissioned officer training, I discovered something unexpected: a passion for teaching. I learned how to build lesson plans, command a room, and lead others—a foundation that would shape my entire career.
I could never have imagined that those early lessons—discipline, preparation, and confidence—would carry me from Hamilton to Atlanta, where I would help lead a $1.5 billion organization. Nor could I have foreseen standing before global audiences, lecturing with the same principles I once used to train recruits.
The foundation the Argylls gave me has carried farther than I ever dreamed—through boardrooms, stadiums, and classrooms alike. For that, I remain profoundly grateful.”
— Col Glenn Gibson
You must:
Complete an online application at www.forces.ca. Once online, create a profile, select your preferred trade and unit, and fill in the application.
Important:
Initial Basic Training: Includes Basic Military Qualification Course (BMQ) and trade-specific courses.
Weekly Training Nights: Wednesdays from 1900 to 2200 hrs between September and early June.
Training Exercises and Range Practices: Generally one weekend per month, September to May.
There are many other opportunities to attend a variety of training and qualification courses during the summer months.
Note that there is no obligation to serve for a minimum period of time. If you decide the Army Reserve is not for you, you may leave at anytime. However, while serving, you are expected to attend weekly training nights and monthly training exercises to maintain your operational readiness and to meet your training standards and requirements.
Yes! As an Army Reserve soldier, you will be paid for all training and duty and your pay will increase with promotions, attaining qualifications and time in service.
Current pay for a newly joined Private recruit is:
Half day (up to six hours): $63.61
Full day (more than six hours): $127.22
Yes! Financial benefits include:
For further details, ask your Argyll Recruiter.
No. All uniforms and equipment are provided free of charge by the Army.
Absolutely! The flexibility of Army Reserve service accommodates the demands of civilian jobs and attendance at schools and universities. Almost all Argylls are either enrolled in fulltime school studies or hold fulltime civilian jobs.
Basic Military Qualification Course (BMQ) is conducted on weekends, typically in the fall and over the winter, at the Argylls’ armouries at 200 James Street North, Hamilton. Subsequent training is usually conducted during the summer at Canadian Army bases.
The Basic Military Qualification Course (BMQ) is your introduction to military life. Led by qualified and experienced instructors, you will learn the military skills of the profession of arms and acquire the core values of the Canadian Armed Forces – duty, loyalty, integrity, courage. Subjects include:
While the BMQ Course is physically and mentally, rarely does an Argyll graduate without a greater degree of self-confidence, new friends, and a strong sense of accomplishment.
On successful completion of the BMQ Course, you will attend trade qualification courses, some of which are conducted at Canadian Army training bases during the summer. Other qualification courses are run over the fall/winter period.
For specifics and a realistic job preview of your selected trade, contact the Argyll Recruiter (below).
Yes! As an Army Reservist, you are guaranteed full-time summer employment in your first four years of service. The pay you earn will help cover tuition and other post-secondary education expenses without your disrupting studies. Moreover, attendance at training over the school year will help cover your daily living expenses.
In addition to the pay, your four-year summer employment will include rank and trade qualification training and leadership development with potential for promotion.
Reservists who are trained, medically fit and available may volunteer for service on Canada’s international missions and/or domestic operations in Canada (e.g., natural disaster response). It is not mandatory for Army Reserve soldiers.
The Argylls’ Recruiter is available to provide guidance, offer realistic job previews and answer your questions about the application process, training, trades, or service expectations.
Please feel free to call during business hours or email anytime:
289-253-7263
A&SHofC.Recruiting@forces.gc.ca
Connect with recruiters, attend an information session, or explore our detailed resources to start your journey.
Information sessions, available upon request, can help you decide if a part-time military career with the Argylls is for you.
Sessions take place at:
Argyll Recruiting Office, The Armouries
200 James St. N, Hamilton ON L8R 2K9
