Observer-coach/trainers learn to teach

Published Nov. 14, 2013
By By Capt. Kelvin O. Scott
72nd Field Artillery Brigade Public Affairs

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE DIX LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Soldiers assigned to the 72nd Field Artillery Brigade, First Army Division East joined other Soldiers and civilians to participate in an Army Basic Instructor Course Nov. 8-18, 2013, here.

Before First Army Division East observer-coach/trainers can provide the most relevant, realistic training possible to Reserve Component forces, they must first receive training themselves.

"While remaining engaged in post-mobilization training and demobilization, we continue to expand support to our reserve component partners in pre-mobilization settings," said Col. John Lange, 72nd F.A. Bde. commander. "ABIC is a foundational course that impacts the ability of our observer-coach/trainers to meet the training goals set by First Army."

Seven certified instructors from the 4th Brigade, 94th Division, Decatur, Ga., traveled here to teach the ABIC course at the NCO Academy. ABIC is a comprehensive 80-hour course that trains both military and civilian instructors to provide training and education in the Army training environment.

"This is a great course because it allows military personnel, as well as their civilian counterparts, the opportunity to enhance their training toolbox," said Sgt. 1st Class Robin Russell, ABIC instructor candidate. "At some point everyone involved will be an instructor regardless of their rank or title. The purpose of this course is to provide a training standard that everyone should strive to reach."

Current ABIC student and 313th Logistical Support Battalion observer coach/trainer, Staff Sgt. Thomas Costa, said he welcomes the additional training.

"Everything learned in this course definitely enhances our skills. It is a first-rate course that prepares us to carry out our mission using current standards," Costa said.

The students use a combination of adult communication and learning theories, training sessions and teaching methodologies to demonstrate mastery of their subjects.

"Each of us enjoys this type of training environment," explained Master Sgt. Philip Carter course manager. "It provides us the opportunity to not only affect the currently enrolled Soldier or civilian, but also the person that he or she serves as an instructor for down the road."

First Army Division East advises, assists and trains reserve-component forces prior to deployments as well as during monthly and annual training events to maintain Army-directed readiness standards.