Mandatory supervisor training is now only available online Published Oct. 7, 2010 Manpower and Personnel Directorate TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- For years, first-time supervisors at Tinker have accomplished mandatory supervisor training by attending locally taught courses, but as of Oct. 1 these programs are only available online. The First-Level Supervisor Training Program, and the Civilian Personnel Management Course, have provided training in leadership competencies and technical training on human resource management to thousands of supervisors for decades. Now, the two courses will be conducted via the Air Education and Training Command Virtual Campus. All new supervisors are required by law to complete Mandatory Supervisor Training, within six months of placement on a supervisory position. MST is part of a larger training process for developing future leaders already in place at Tinker. "Virtual MST courses occur after supervisors are selected" said Belinda Woods, OC-ALC chief of Workforce Development "They compliment and reinforce concepts learned in the Supervisor Development Program." The program provides a means for identifying, evaluating, and selecting employees with demonstrated leadership potential and introduces them to the skills and competencies needed to lead well. Students interact with live speakers and perform projects with other students, much as they would in a traditional classroom setting. Virtual U.S. Air Force supervisor training is conducted one day per week for five weeks, while virtual CPMC is one day a week for four weeks. "There are some advantages to on-line instruction," added Mrs. Woods "Aside from the obvious cost savings, students are only engaged one day a week, leaving them free to perform their supervisory duties the rest of the time. This gives supervisors much needed time on duty during those critical early days." The added flexibility and extra time between classes comes at a price. Classes will now be stretched out over weeks instead of days, taking longer to complete. Classes are limited to 120 students each and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. "To accomplish this training in the required timeframe, new supervisors will need to enroll immediately upon placement, at least three weeks in advance of training start date," said Ms. Woods. Class dates are scheduled a year in advance and posted on the registration website. Students may attend from home, office or a dedicated computer classroom in the Organic Training Unit, Bldg. 1, classroom 13. Supervisors are considered "TDY in-place" while in training and should remain focused solely on course activities while class is in session. If needed, students can make up missed presentations by watching recordings of live sessions. First-time supervisors of military personnel must attend a third course, the Military Personnel Management Course, also within the first six months. MPMC is scheduled for on-line conversion in Oct 2011. Those unable to complete required MST in the designated timeframe must provide statements explaining the reason for non-compliance to their chain of command and ultimately to senior leadership.