Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation: PEO STRI class earns 100 percent DAWIA certification rate.

The Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) graduated Defense Acquisition University, Program Management Office Course, PMT 352B, in Orlando, Fla., Nov. 17, 2006.

The 30-member class earned a solid 100 percent certification rate, raising PEO STRI's overall Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification level to a record 75 percent.

During the six-week course, acquisition professionals from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and defense industry convened daily to receive instruction and collaborate on scenario-based practical exercises. Students participated in the MindRover Exercise, a simulation program used to design and equip a vehicle with various sensors, movement components, and weapons. These exercises culminated in "Battle Royale," in which the customized vehicles raced against each other. As a member of the winning team, PEO STRI's Leslie Dubow said the game captured the class's attention.

"It was an engaging tool," said Dubow. "Working with the instructors and as a team really helped the class get involved in the coursework," she added.

Although the MindRover combat race was a part of the curriculum, the course primarily challenges students to broaden their view of program management, said Dubow.

As the second part of the DAWIA Level III certification in the Program Management career field, the course demands time, focus, and determination, said Traci Jones, project support executive for PEO STRI.

"Professional development is a priority at PEO STRI," said Jones. "Currently, the Army's DAWIA certification level is 38 percent. Our workforce is far exceeding those numbers," she added.

Jones credits the PEO's high success and certification rate to dedicated workers and supportive leaders. "We encourage all of our employees to take responsibility for their careers. That means getting out of their comfort zones and challenging themselves. The courses offered by the DAU here in Orlando allow them to do just that," said Jones.

The class was the second DAU PMT 352B class held in Orlando. The first on-site class graduated in March 2006. PEO STRI looks forward to hosting more DAU courses on-site, particularly PMT 352B.

Headquartered in Orlando, Fla., PEO STRI executes an annual budget of over $2 billion. In addition to providing interoperable training, testing, simulation solutions, and program management, the PEO provides life-cycle support and operations for most of the Army's training systems around the world. PEO STRI is dedicated to putting the power of simulation into the hands of the nation's warfighters.

Kelly is the Public Affairs Officer for PEO STRI.