The Center for Information Warfare Training (CIWT) completed a review of its enlisted information warfare specialist (EIWS) qualification standards, Jan. 19.

A panel of Sailors representing each of the enlisted ratings in the information warfare (IW) community updated and changed the CIWT-specific personnel qualification standards (PQS) required for the EIWS designation to better align with the CIWT mission.

"This updated PQS is much more CIWT-focused than our previous version," said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Brendon Nobles. "We've replaced a lot of the more operational aspects of IW with knowledge requirements that more closely relate to what we do as training managers."

While the CIWT-specific PQS has shifted focus away from the operational functions of IW, that knowledge is still required in the fleetwide "common core" section of the EIWS qualification PQS. Both are required in order to earn the EIWS designation.

Attainment of EIWS designation signifies that an eligible Sailor has achieved a level of excellence and proficiency in IW. Additionally, the EIWS insignia means the Sailor has acquired additional general knowledge to enhance his or her understanding of the role of the IW community as it pertains to warfighting, mission effectiveness, and command survivability. Sailors can earn EIWS qualification only through a formal qualification program.

"Every day, our staff works extremely hard developing and updating our curriculum to ensure it is the most current and relevant training available in order to enhance fleet IW readiness," said Command Master Chief Michael Bates. "That commitment to training excellence is reflected not only in our schoolhouses, but at the Learning Center level as well. Our Sailors have done a fantastic job in rebuilding this PQS to promote a more substantial understanding of how our mission impacts the IW community."

The PQS is currently undergoing a review process and will be available on CIWT's My Navy Portal page at http://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/information-warfare-training/home.

Center for Information Warfare Training delivers trained information warfare professionals to the Navy and joint services, enabling optimal performance of information warfare across the full spectrum of military operations.

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