Marine Corps System Command uses virtual training to support Marines

The Marine Corps Systems Command’s mission to support Marines continues, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

With travel restrictions in place, MCSC began conducting online training to teach marines how to use new gear. This online training, called Virtual NET, is designed to replicates a live classroom training environment. Through a live video stream, Marines can watch as an instructor teaches them to employ a piece of equipment. During each session, participants can ask questions using an audio conference line or an online chat feature.

MCSC began NET training for the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Common Handheld (MCH) and a Networking On-the-Move technology (NOTM). MCH is a tablet-based system used to plot and share locations. NOTM is a satellite communication system that allows Marines to communicate while mobile on the battlefield.

“Virtual NET provides online training to Marines so they can learn to use new equipment and continue to support their mission,” Kenneth Hess, MCSC’s manpower personal training lead for the program manager for Command and Control Systems, said.

The instructors are government employees from MCSC and Naval Information Warfare Center, as well as contractors. All are certified and trained instructors.

The MCH NET training occurred from March to April, while the NOTM sessions took place from April to May.

“This training is critical to ensuring that the warfighter is properly trained on the use and performance of fielded equipment,” Lt. Col. Austin Bonner, Extensible MAGTF Command and Control product manager at MCSC, said. “As a command, we must support the warfighter despite the COVID-19 restrictions, and that’s what we’re doing.”