Sailors review OCCSTDs for YN, MC Ratings

NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- Training managers from the Center for Service Support (CSS) teamed up with Navy Manpower Analysis Center (NAVMAC) representatives March 26-31 to conduct occupational standards reviews for the yeoman and mass communication specialist ratings during forums held in San Diego and Millington, Tenn.

The occupational standards review process, which brings together Sailors from E-4 to E-7, gets to the heart of ratings by breaking down core tasks, job descriptions, and skills and abilities.

Occupational standards provide the common thread that links Navy work with Navy Sailors. They are the building blocks for all Navy professional development and training tools, such as rate training manuals, personal qualification standards, course curricula and advancement exams. Because of this, updating and maintaining OCCSTDs is critical to ensuring that they accurately reflect what jobs Sailors in specific ratings are performing in the fleet.

"[The review process] is important because as time goes by many occupational standards become outdated," said Yeoman 2nd Class Tiffany Brown, 31st Seabee Readiness Group, Port Hueneme, Calif. "Between rate conversions and new electronic programs, we as a community need to make sure our fellow shipmates are getting the training they need."

Unlike advancement exam development performed by chief petty officers, occupational standards are reviewed by the product users - petty officers, the future leaders of the ratings.

"I was excited to be able to participate in the process and be able to represent E-4 MCs," said Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ty Connors of Commander, Navy Recruiting Command. "I am always full of opinions, and I appreciate the opportunity to add my voice to the occupational standards review and to learn from the inside how this process works."

The Center for Service Support, located at Naval Station Newport, R.I, is dedicated to providing Sailors in the administration, logistics and media communities the knowledge and skills to support the fleet's war fighting mission. More than 300 staff and faculty members from Newport to Norfolk, from San Diego to Meridian, Miss, support the CSS mission and are dedicated to providing valuable knowledge and expertise that is technically, professionally and personally enhancing for all Sailors in the supply community.

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For more news from Center for Service Support, visit www.navy.mil/local/css/.