Maintaining Technically Relevant Enlisted Leadership
Abstract
A common theme running throughout all discussions of force-transformation and future conflicts is technology. With the intent of leveraging systems to help the warfighter conduct smarter and more efficient operations, the requirements have increased for technological expertise at lower echelons of command. The technical skills required of entry-level communications Marines have become much greater as the equipment becomes more complex, but the time to train those same entry-level Marines has not grown at a proportional rate. The end state is an expanded emphasis on the noncommissioned officer in the operating forces to be a teacher, leader, and technical expert. The fielding of advanced technologies has created a shortfall in communications experts that requires a long-term solution to strengthen that occupational field and provide a greater return on the investment in training. The reliance on advanced technology at the lowest tactical levels is intended to make the Corps more flexible, adaptable, and network centric. However, "smart operations" require smart Marines, and without a concerted effort to improve the technical proficiency of junior leadership, technology will impede those processes it should enhance. Instructor duty at Marine Corps Communications schools should be made an official B-Billet to ensure that the community maintains technically relevant enlisted leadership poised to meet the future demands of the technological battlefield.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 18, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA507827
Entities
People
- R. A. Belt
Organizations
- Marine Corps University