The Force Design 2028 Execution Plan provides clear direction on making improvements to our training system, including: investing in infrastructure at all training centers, maximizing capacity across the training system, and establishing a large, multi-purpose training facility. The Plan also calls for tailoring training pathways and embracing learner-centric models. Sounds great, but what does that mean?
MyCG sat down with Ms. Jennifer Sinclair, Director of the Force Readiness Command (FORCECOM), to discuss how Force Design 2028 will improve the Coast Guard training system. Prior to her appointment to the Senior Executive Service, Ms. Sinclair served as an active-duty Coast Guard officer for 26 years. During her military career, she served as the Lead for the Personnel Readiness Task Force; Chief of Officer Personnel Management division; Director of the Performance Technology Center, and the Executive Assistant to the Deputy Commandant for Mission Support.
“I’m most excited for this opportunity to ask the big questions,” said Ms. Sinclair. “What will the future Coast Guard need and how do we train the workforce to succeed?”
(Literal) Foundation for the Future
To grow by 15,000 military members by 2028, the Coast Guard is looking to establish a new training center. The Service is in search of existing properties that can be adapted and operational within 12 months of acquisition or lease. The Request for Information (RFI) lists specific location, lodging, dining, medical, classroom, athletic, and administrative spaces needs.
Additionally, the Service is investing in major Infrastructure improvements at current training centers. Training Center Cape May is getting a $425 million-dollar investment to build an all-weather gym facility and renovate barracks, the clinic, and galley. Other training centers are also seeing infrastructure improvements. Planning is underway to execute facility renovations and infrastructure improvements across the training system, with the goals of maximizing student throughput and enhancing the student learning experience to deliver mission-ready service members back into the fleet.
While new facilities are essential, the Coast Guard is also transforming how training is delivered to better prepare the workforce.
(Figurative) Foundation for the Future
Improving facilities is just the one part—revolutionizing how we train is where the real transformation happens. Beyond infrastructure improvements, FORCECOM is reimagining how we train.
“At FORCECOM, we’re focusing on training and practicing for performance,” said Ms. Sinclair. “We’re asking, ‘how can we make it more realistic?’”
In a learner-centric model, progress is measured not just by course completion but by increased readiness to do the job, as evident in real-world performance improvement. People learn in different ways and have varying levels of starting knowledge. We can create a personalized pathway using micro-learning modules to allow a new member to focus on foundational skills, while a seasoned member could dive into advanced modules tailored to their role.
Adopting virtual and augmented reality technologies is a game changer. (Note: Virtual reality immerses you in a completely digital environment where you can interact with virtual objects. Augmented reality overlays digital information onto the real world so that you can see a layer of text, graphics, or models over your physical workplace.)
Imagine learning to work on the HVAC system using VR to practice diagnosis faults in a zero-risk environment. Then, you can use AR to visualize the component parts before disassembling, blending digital insights with hands-on wrench-turning.
“We’re just scratching the surface of what AR and VR can do for training,” said Ms. Sinclair. “The possibilities are endless—whether it’s practicing complex repairs in a virtual space or overlaying digital guidance in real time during hands-on tasks. It’s exciting to think about how these tools will transform the way we learn and prepare for the mission.”
The future of Modern Ready Learning, with VR, AR, and more, opens the doors to possibilities like more objective grading criteria and new training technology, like drones and simunitions. Imagine an electronic training profile that grows with you from boot camp to retirement. It tells you – and instructors – how you learn best. Soon you won’t have to imagine it because we’re already using some of this technology at the Special Missions Training Center (SMTC) with plans to roll out to the Maritime Law Enforcement Academy (MLEA) and Training Center Yorktown soon.
Wrap
These investments aren’t just about buildings or technology—they’re about empowering Coast Guard members to excel in their roles and adapt to future challenges. By investing in cutting-edge technologies, personalized learning pathways, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Service is laying both a literal and figurative foundation for the future. “At the heart of Force Design 2028 is the belief that our people are our greatest asset,” said Ms. Sinclair. “By equipping them with the best tools, training, and environments, we’re not just preparing them for the challenges of today—we’re empowering them to shape the Coast Guard of tomorrow.”
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