New qualification standards released
12/17/2009
NEWPORT, R.I. (NNS) -- New and updated personnel qualification standards (PQS) booklets for the yeoman (YN) rating, personnel specialist rating (PS), 3-M and scullery operator (specific platforms) were released in December by the Center for Service Support (CSS) in Newport, R.I.

A PQS is a compilation of the minimum knowledge and skills an individual must demonstrate to qualify to stand watches or perform other specific routine duties necessary for the safety, security or proper operation of a ship, aircraft or support system.

"With the current emphasis on 3-M and back to basics, it was necessary to review and update the 3-M PQS. But, the revision is only one small step toward refreshing 3-M fundamentals. We are also reviewing and revising 3-M training taught throughout the fleet," said Command Master Chief Jeff Owejan from CSS. "Being a post-tour 3-M coordinator, reviewing 3-M training requirements has been a passionate experience, and CSS has received astounding support from the fleet."

The PQS booklets are available for download and printing on Navy Knowledge Online (NKO) via the Navy PQS link found on the Quick Links tab on the left side of the main page. From the Navy PQS page, Sailors should follow the PQS 43200 Series link on the left side.

Richard Price said the CSS PQS and non-resident training courses (NRTC) manager, review of the newly released PQS will be required in 18 months.

"[In the meantime,] CSS will turn its focus toward building and revising NRTCs for the administrative, logistics and media ratings," said Price.

The first NRTC on the table will be for the mass communication specialist. Subject-matter experts from within the rating will gather for a conference Jan. 25-29 in Norfolk. The revised courses, like the PQS, will be available in electronic versions only. They can be downloaded via NKO.

"We are excited about the challenge of bringing the NRTCs up to date and in line with the fleet," said Price. "The MC NRTC is the first one on our plate, and we expect it to be quite a tasking as we merge about ten previously printed manuals from the four previous ratings."

Sailors in the administrative, logistics and media ratings should visit the "What's happening" page in the Center for Service Support NKO domain to remain informed.

The Center for Service Support is comprised of active-duty, civilian and contractor personnel, who direct the training efforts of 13 different schools around the fleet. The CSS team ensures curriculum and professional development tools are current.