The Military Sector Of The Marine Corps - 1734 Words

We are losing some of our best Machinists and Welders after their first enlistment due to the lucrative options available in the civilian sector and the lack of opportunities to display their innovative nature in the Marine Corps. An additive and subtractive fabricator in the trenches would serve to be an asset to commanders, because he/she will not be limited by technology or lack of expertise. Both of these specialties present an opportunity to exploit manufacturing capabilities. After all, exploitation is a human endeavor and until unmanned technologies take over completely, is it not the Marines using the technologies that are the assets? In the civilian sector, experience is often necessary in most fields; however, machining and†¦show more content†¦Thus, the opportunities to exploit machining and welding capabilities disappear along with the opportunities to pass down their knowledge and skills through guidance and mentoring. Interestingly enough the current manpower s tructure places these two MOS’ side by side in every ESB, Maintenance battalion and Ground Ordnance Vehicle Battalions. In an effort to challenge the status quo and to continue on with the Commandant guidance; what benefits could arise if these two specialties are aligned together and be allowed to merge at the fifteen year mark? These two specialties share similar skills in terms of fabrication and metallurgy, including a thorough understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of metals. They both have a strong understanding of structural design and manufacturing regardless of material. And one particular aspect that is often overlooked is the ability to be critical thinkers, as this is inherent with artistic creation (White, Robinson 2001). Additionally, all the processes used in machining and welding require a level of critical thinking and creativity in order to maximize efforts and resources. The current employment of these two specialties is minimal while in garrison; however, while forward deployed, these specialties become an integral part of combat innovation. Their creativity and ingenuity have made a significant impact in the