CRYSTAL CITY, Va. – Representatives from the Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) educated the surface warfare community on who they train and how they support the Fleet at the Surface Navy Association (SNA) Symposium Jan. 10 - 12.
Capt. Frank X. Castellano, CSCS commanding officer, oversees 15 learning sites and is responsible for combat systems training across the rates of fire controlman, operations specialist, gunner’s mate, sonar technician surface, mineman, interior communications electrician, and electronics technician.
“For the second year in a row, we had a booth that illustrated how we develop and deliver surface ship combat systems training to achieve surface warfare superiority,” Castellano said. “We also provided a preview of our new emerging technologies and training tools that we are currently working on that will map the future of combat systems training.”
Ms. Rozeta Fairchild, who supports CSCS’ technical support department, led the effort in developing a training exhibit where the surface navy community could experience various training demonstrations; Seamanship Multimedia, Navigation System Maintenance Trainer (NSMT), and Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) Visual Interactive Simulation Training Application (VISTA).
“We wanted to show how we are incorporating new methods of instruction to support High Velocity Learning,” Fairchild explained. “We also demonstrated the new Surface Training Advanced Virtual Environment (STAVE)-Navigation (N) video entitled ‘Navigation Training from Classroom to Deckplate’ created by Surface Warfare Resource Sponsor, OPNAV N96. I believe our team of military and civilian instructors and staff from CSCS Headquarters, CSCS Unit Dam Neck and CSCS Detachment West was very successful in educating the navy about our training.”
Lt. Hillary Collandra stated that SNA also provided a fantastic platform to inform the Fleet of CSCS’ contributions to Ready, Relevant Learning (RRL).
“We are at the forefront of improving the learning experience for our next generation of Sailors by ensuring quality training, simulating learning environments, and improving educational continuums for all surface combat systems ratings,” Collandra explained. “It was an honor and a truly motivating experience to represent CSCS and spread awareness of our endeavors.”
As CSCS wrapped up their third day at the SNA Symposium, plans were already being discussed for 2018.
“We hope to have a larger booth and more simulations,” Fairchild said. “If you did not get a chance to stop by our booth, we hope to see you next January.”
Castellano stressed that CSCS’ exhibit was a success for the second year in a row because it was truly a team effort.
“CSCS represents both military and civilian professionals and they came together and successfully communicated our message not only to the Sailor of today, but also to the Sailor of tomorrow.”
The SNA was incorporated in 1985 to promote greater coordination and communication among those in the military, business and academic communities who share a common interest in Naval Surface Warfare and to support the activities of Surface Naval Forces.
For information on the Center for Surface Combat System, visit https://www.netc.navy.mil/centers/cscs/ or on Facebook.