First VR training arrives at Keesler Air Force Base
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The 334th Training Squadron incorporated the first virtualreality (VR) training for Airfield Management students in the U.S. Air Force onKeesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, June 28, so students could get more of a“hands-on” learning experience.
Chief Master Sgt. Paul Portugal, Airfield Management careerfield manager, Pentagon, Washington DC, relates this new technology to themission of Air Education and Training Command (AETC). “Innovation and thecontinuum of learning has always been a priority of AETC to make our airmenmore effective and efficient,” said Portugal.
Master Sgt. Joshua Stillwagon, 334th TRS instructor,believes this new technology can teach the airmen more efficiently than theprevious, lecture-based class because of the hands-on experience. “This systemgives instructors the capability to not just tell airmen, but instantly showthem a concept,” said Stillwagon.
The simulation includes the setting of an airfield andallows students to practice their job as if it were operational.
“The VR technology gives our students a visualrepresentation of airfield hazards that can be unsafe,” said Portugal. “Theydon’t need to imagine it, they can visualize cranes, trees or other things thatcan affect flight safety.”
Portugal believes this training will not only help thefuture of airfield management training, but improve the overall training of airmen.
“The technological jump that we are making in how we createmore efficient and effective airmen is the biggest part of this,” saidPortugal.
Col. Leo Lawson Jr., previous 81st Training Group commander,was impressed with the quality of the new VR experience. “The VR trainingsimulations blew me away,” said Lawson. “Not only was it able to deliver thetraining our airmen need to understand the concept of the job, but it did sowith great quality.”
Source: US Air Force
