Forging the Future Force: Empowering NCOs as the Vanguard of Next-Gen C2 & Signal Readiness

  • Room: Georgia Cyber Center Auditorium
Thursday, August 21, 2025: 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM

Speaker(s)

Panelist (confirmed)
CSM Kevin D. Flickinger, USA
Command Sergeant Major
Cyber Protection Brigade
Panelist (confirmed)
CSM Lisa Gandy, USA
Regimental Command Sergeant Major
Army Signal Corps
Panelist (confirmed)
CSM Timothy McGuire, USA
Command Sergeant Major
U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence
Panelist (confirmed)
SGM Richard A. Mustard, USA
Sergeant Major, FORSCOM G-6
U.S. Army Forces Command

Description

The operational environment is evolving at an unprecedented pace, demanding a fundamentally different approach to soldier training and readiness. This NCO Panel addresses the critical imperative of preparing our soldiers – and specifically, leveraging the expertise of our Non-Commissioned Officers – to thrive in a contested, information-rich battlespace. We will focus on how to effectively integrate emerging capabilities, particularly within Next Generation Command and Control (Next Gen C2) systems, and the pivotal role of the Division Signal Battalion in enabling this transformation.

This discussion will move beyond simply introducing new technology. It will center on training soldiers to confidently operate, maintain, and strategically employ these systems. The panel will explore how Division Signal Battalions can be best utilized not just as providers of capability, but as core components of a holistic training ecosystem. A key theme will be the empowerment of NCOs as the primary developers and deliverers of this training, capitalizing on their direct soldier interaction and practical experience.

Key Discussion Points:
The Evolving Threat Landscape: Examining the challenges posed by near-peer adversaries and the demands placed on tactical signal and C2 capabilities.
Next Gen C2 – From Concept to Combat: A realistic assessment of the implementation of Next Gen C2, focusing on the training requirements necessary for successful adoption at the tactical level.
Division Signal Battalions as Training Hubs: Exploring innovative models for leveraging Division Signal Battalions’ expertise and resources to create relevant, hands-on training scenarios.
NCOs as Expert Trainers: Highlighting best practices for identifying, developing, and empowering NCOs to become subject matter experts in emerging technologies and effective training methodologies.
Bridging the Gap: Discussing strategies to ensure training accurately reflects the realities of the operational environment and prepares soldiers for the challenges they will face in deployment.

Tracks:



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