The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) concluded a self-evaluation known as Command Assessment Readiness and Training (CART) I, Aug. 8.

The assessment helped fine-tune training, manning and development at the end of a scheduled seven-month deployment supporting the 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Operation.

"This was essentially an internal review," said Lt. Cmdr. Alexandra Grayson, the ship's training officer. "We are looking at everything from schools to watch bills and watch team replacement plans, which we are building out for the next 12 months.

We have to find out where the gaps are and who to send out when we return from deployment. We were also looking through training assessment cards on our administrative side."

Although this was Grayson's first time conducting the CART 1 training, she felt comfortable leading the way.

"I am in charge of the whole exercise," said Grayson. "I task all of the training teams and departments to self-assess and identify all the gaps that need to be filled. This allows us to pinpoint problem areas and keep ourselves healthy as a ship."

According to Grayson, CART I is absolutely necessary to the success of the ship because it improves efficiency during and after transitional periods.

"Typically, when we come back from deployment, there are many people that transfer," said Grayson. "This exercise is critical to mission success and readiness for that reason."

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