Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens visited the Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) and the Aegis Training and Readiness Center (ATRC), on Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren, July 24.

During the visit, Stevens was briefed on CSCS' current technology initiatives, including the Synthetic Combat Operator Trainer and the Visual Integrated Simulation and Training Application. The MCPON was also able to observe a demonstration of one of CSCS' future training projects, the Aegis Tactical Operations Course Virtual Schoolhouse.

"We provided him an overview of how CSCS effectively evaluates and incorporates new technologies into training," said Dr. Darrell Tatro, director, CSCS International Programs. "CSCS leadership fosters a process of innovation that seeks out and incorporates new methods of instruction and learning tools to create the 'classroom of the future' and ultimately meet the Navy's demand for ready, relevant training."

Master Chief Fire Controlman Brian Rieger, ATRC's senior enlisted leader. hosted Stevens during the tour of the schoolhouse.

"MCPON Stevens saw firsthand how we train Sailors to operate, maintain, and employ the various systems associated with the Aegis combat system found on board the Navy's Aegis cruisers and destroyers," Rieger explained. "He was able to interact with students while observing a blended learning solution that includes standard classrooms, hands-on labs, simulations, [and] computer-based and interactive courseware training."

After the tour, Stevens held an all-hands call with CSCS, ATRC and NSF Dahlgren's military personnel.

"I came here today to observe current and future development initiatives that are forthcoming in support of Sailor 2025," MCPON Stevens explained. "It is clear that CSCS and ATRC are operating forward to train the Sailor of tomorrow's Navy."

CSCS Command Master Chief Lewis Wilson said it was an honor to host MCPON Stevens.

"Surface combat systems training is essential to the Navy's mission," Wilson explained. "I wanted MCPON Stevens to learn about our current and future training projects and see firsthand how we train and educate our Sailors."

CSCS' mission is to develop and deliver surface ship combat systems training to achieve surface warfare superiority. CSCS headquarters' staff oversees 14 learning sites and provides nearly 70,000 hours of curriculum for 700 courses a year, to more than 40,000 Sailors. CSCS delivers the specialized training required for officer and enlisted Sailors to tactically operate, maintain, and employ shipboard and shore-based weapons, sensors, and command and control systems utilized in today's navy.

For more news from Center for Surface Combat Systems, visit www.navy.mil/