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Equipping the Corps

Equipping the Corps

By Marine Corps Systems Command

Conversations about Marine Corps acquisition, innovation, and gear with host Morgan Blackstock, MCSC’s Public Affairs Specialist.

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S1 Ep6 Contracts with Johany Deal

Equipping the CorpsNov 25, 2021

00:00
40:18
Other Transaction Authority with Jack Cave

Other Transaction Authority with Jack Cave

In acquisition, we often have to strike a balance between getting gear out quickly and abiding by federal contract regulations. However, in some cases our command is able to use specific contract vehicles to better meet the “speed of need.” On this episode, Morgan chats with Jack Cave, Division Head for Program Support.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Favorite TV show: Doc Talk

Mar 28, 202443:46
Amphibious Combat Vehicles with Col Tim Hough

Amphibious Combat Vehicles with Col Tim Hough

Today is a very special day in Equipping the Corps history as Morgan welcomes our first ever return guest, Col. Tim Hough. Col. Hough is the program manager for Advanced Amphibious Assault, and he and his team are leading the development and fielding efforts for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle – the Corps’ next-generation vehicle designed to move Marines from ship to shore.


Book: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Podcast: Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend, Smartless, It's a True Crime

Movie: Gladiator, Braveheart, Dumb and Dumber and Nacho Libre

Mar 14, 202448:26
Individual Armor with Maj Conor Stewart

Individual Armor with Maj Conor Stewart

On this episode, Morgan sits down with Maj. Conor Stewart, Project Officer for the Individual Armor team here at SYSCOM. Ensuring the Marine Corps is a premiere fighting force starts with the individual Marine, from packs to body armor, Maj Stewart’s team is leading the way.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Show recommendation: The Terminal List

Feb 29, 202435:06
Low Altitude Air Defense with GySgt Mattheau Ross

Low Altitude Air Defense with GySgt Mattheau Ross

Someone once said, “Seconds are hours on the battlefield – especially when it comes to the Low Altitude Air Defense community.” The Marine Air Defense Integrated System, or MADIS, is the Marine Corps’ newest asset in counter-unmanned aircraft systems operations and brings the Corps one step closer to air dominance.

On this episode, Morgan chats with GySgt Mattheau Ross, MADIS 1.0 Training SME and Assistant Project Officer.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show notes:
Book recommendation: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Feb 15, 202448:28
PM Infantry Weapons Logistics with Verne Ashby, Jr.

PM Infantry Weapons Logistics with Verne Ashby, Jr.

The Marine Corps is continuing to modernize and adapt for the future fight – with logistics playing a critical role. On this episode, Morgan sits down with Verne Ashby, Jr. the assistant program manager for Logistics supporting PM Infantry Weapons on the show!


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Book recommendation: The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Feb 01, 202422:27
Explosive Ordnance Disposal with MSgt Juan Lopez Jr.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal with MSgt Juan Lopez Jr.

On today’s episode, Morgan chats with Master Sergeant Juan Lopez Jr., an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Project Officer.


EOD supports Operating Forces by providing force protection to include locating, accessing, identifying, rendering safe, neutralizing, and destruction of foreign and domestic hazardous materials.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Jan 18, 202426:01
Network Modernization with Maj Sean Docherty

Network Modernization with Maj Sean Docherty

On this episode, Morgan sits down with Maj Sean Docherty, a Product Manager working on tactical applications, software, and services modernization.


Some of may think about your network at home, but have you considered Marines need network services in the field? If not, after today you will!


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Book: The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown

Jan 04, 202449:01
L-MADIS Logistics with Courtney Moore

L-MADIS Logistics with Courtney Moore

PM GBAD fields and sustains fully integrated ground to air defense solutions that detect, track, defend and defeat the enemies’ air threat that seek to harm or kill Marines and other high value assets. ON this episode, Morgan chats with Courtney Moore, a logistician for Light Marine Air-Defense Integrated System.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Dec 07, 202328:42
LI2S-MC with Peggy Toth

LI2S-MC with Peggy Toth

On today’s episode, Morgan chats with Peggy Toth, the Program Manager for Logistics Integrated Information Solutions Marine Corps. For those who haven’t heard of LI2S-MC, they deliver and sustains Logistics Information Technology solutions to enable USMC Logistics operations across the enterprise.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

TV show: Shrinking

Book: Hello Beautiful

Movie: Barbie

Nov 23, 202343:59
Boots with Todd Towles

Boots with Todd Towles

On the battlefield, proper footwear can be just as important as a weapon. From running across the desert to jumping out of planes, Marines need adequate footwear to take them from point A to point B without injury. On today’s episode, Morgan chats with Todd Towles, program analyst for the Clothing and Equipment Team on boots.

.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Podcast recommendation: Equipping the Corps

Contact: todd.towles@usmc.mil

Nov 09, 202340:47
Digital Media Systems with CWO3 Joseph DiGirolamo

Digital Media Systems with CWO3 Joseph DiGirolamo

Today, I’m chatting with CWO3 Joseph DiGirolamo the project officer for our Digital Media Systems team. DMS provides Marine Corps communication professionals the ability to acquire, produce and disseminate VI and reprographic products in support of operational requirements and communication objectives.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Song: Don’t Stop Believing – Journey

Book: Atomic Habits – James Clear

Oct 26, 202335:41
Command Element Systems with Col Ross Monta

Command Element Systems with Col Ross Monta

Today, we’re chatting with the Portfolio Manager for Command Element Systems, or as well call it ‘CES.’ We all know communication is paramount on the battlefield, and CES is the central hub for command, control, communications and intelligence equipment.
The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show notes:
TV show: Only Murders in the Building
Oct 12, 202339:45
Meet the Host, Morgan Blackstock

Meet the Host, Morgan Blackstock

If you’re a long-time listener to Equipping the Corps, you may remember just a year ago when I took the reins from the original host, Manny Pacheco. Today, we’re continuing that tradition as I pass the mic to our new Season 3 host, Ms. Morgan Blackstock.

Morgan is a seasoned public affair professional and a certified social butterfly. While Morgan’s name may be new to many of you, you’re actually quite familiar with some of her work as the producer of this podcast. Morgan has been developing questions and coordinating guests for the past year, and I’m excited to see where she takes the podcast as the host.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Podcast recommendation: This Podcast Will Kill You

Sep 28, 202312:06
Gruntworks with Mark Richter

Gruntworks with Mark Richter

Have you ever wondered how the Marine Corps determines how to integrate systems worn and carried by Marines? Cue, Gruntworks Squad Integration Facility. In recent years, the Marine Corps rifle squad has undergone modernization efforts to modify its size, armament, and equipment to increase lethality, expand capabilities, and achieve victory on new battlefields. Our Gruntworks facility here at Quantico is critical to modernizing the Marine Rifle Squad.

On this episode, Tripp chats with Mark Richter, project officer for the Marine Expeditionary Rifle Squad, or MERS, Team here at Marine Corps Systems Command and the manager of Gruntworks.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Movie recommendation: Forrest Gump

Sep 14, 202323:35
Facility Engineering with Robert Rivera

Facility Engineering with Robert Rivera

The Program Manager for Training Systems is Marine Corps Systems Command’s executive agent assigned to manage acquisition and life-cycle support of Marine Corps ground training systems, devices, and training support services. Behind the scenes, engineers, logisticians, project managers, and more are tasked with bringing emerging training system to Marines to not just prepare for the fight, but to increase their survivability on the battlefield.


On this episode, Tripp chats with Robert Rivera, a facility engineer from PM Training Systems.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Movie recommendation: Pirates of the Caribbean

Aug 31, 202322:57
Wargaming and Analysis with Col George Schreffler

Wargaming and Analysis with Col George Schreffler

The Marine Corps is currently mid-Force Design 2030 implementation and depending on where you sit: Active Duty, Reserve, Retired, a member of a sister service, curious taxpayer, or one of our many Allies/Partners; you are aware of some of the paradigm-shifting changes.

Much of the information provided to these audiences is post-decisional. The rigor, applied by the Combat Development and Integration Enterprise, to inform Force Design 2030 modernization efforts is often ignored for the sensational headline. Today, we’re going to dive into the world of wargaming and the organization responsible for this effort, The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory or MCWL.

On this episode, Tripp chats with the Director of the Wargaming Division at Marine Corps Warfighting Lab, Col. George Schreffler.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Neptune’s Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by James D. Hornfischer
War Plan Orange: The U.S. Strategy to Defeat Japan by Edward S. Miller
Aug 17, 202332:44
AC2SN with Dayle Wright

AC2SN with Dayle Wright

Many of us are familiar with the phrase ‘eyes on the sky.’ Well, Program Manager Air Command Control and Sensor Netting also known as PM AC2SN is critical to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force mission success. PM AC2SN acts as the central agent for the research, development, production, deployment, and life cycle management of Aviation Command and Control (AC2) for the Marine Corps operating forces and supporting establishments.


On this episode, Tripp chats with Mr. Dayle Wright, Program Manager for PM AC2SN.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

TV: Jeopardy & Star Trek

Books:

History of God by Karen Armstrong

Stephen King books

Piers Anthony

Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond


Movies:

Braveheart

Saving Private Ryan

We Were Soldiers Once

Star Wars

Turner Classic Movies

Aug 03, 202328:44
MCTSSA with Col. Craig Clarkson

MCTSSA with Col. Craig Clarkson

The Marine Corps Tactical Systems Support Activity or MCTSSA, provides 24/7 global technical support for command, control, computer, communications, cyber, and intelligence (C5I) systems; and conducts engineering, testing and evaluation, and supports experimentation on C5I systems and amphibious platforms in order to inform acquisition decisions and make the Fleet Marine Force (FMF) more capable.


This week, Tripp sits down with the Commanding Officer for MCTSSA, Col. Craig Clarkson.


The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Book Recommendation:

Commandant's Reading List & The Kill Chain: Defending America in the Future High-Tech Warfare by Christian Brose

Podcast: Phoenix Cast

Jul 20, 202336:53
Corrosion Prevention and Control 
with Eric Brown
Jul 06, 202327:12
Let’s Talk Requirements with Brig. Gen. Stephen Lightfoot

Let’s Talk Requirements with Brig. Gen. Stephen Lightfoot

Combat Development and Integration, or CD&I, is the institutional and intellectual epicenter for the evolution of the Marine Corps. They assess the environment, develop and validate concepts, identify capabilities, and develop solutions to ensure Marine Corps operating forces have the necessary capabilities to remain the world’s foremost expeditionary warfighting organization.

As part of CD&I, the Capabilities Development Directorate, or CDD, develops and integrates warfighting capabilities solutions that provide for an effective, integrated Marine Air-Ground Task Force capability, current and future, that anticipates strategic challenges and opportunities for the nation’s defense.

On this episode, Tripp sits down with Brig. Gen. Stephen Lightfoot, director for the CDD at CD&I.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

 

Show notes:

Book: 7 Second to Die: A Military Analysis of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and the Future of Warfighting by Col. John Antal

Jun 22, 202326:48
Light Tactical Vehicles with Maj. Aaron Viana

Light Tactical Vehicles with Maj. Aaron Viana

Mobility is key to survivability. The Marine Corps’ Light Tactical Vehicle Program has over 20,000 pieces of rolling stock in our tactical vehicle fleet. From the joint light tactical vehicle to the ultra-light tactical platform, the Corps’ LTV program is constantly evolving as part of Force Design 2030. The program has a unique mission to divest, field and modernize our fleet to ensure Marines have an unfair advantage for the future fight.


Today I’m happy to have Maj Aaron Viana on the podcast to tell us more about our light tactical vehicles. Aaron is the Team Lead for Light Tactical Vehicles in our Logistics Combat Element Systems portfolio.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

 

TV show: Ted Lasso & Band of Brothers

Book: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

Podcast: Equipping the Corps

Jun 08, 202321:04
Logistics with MGySgt Judah Crawford and TJ Echols

Logistics with MGySgt Judah Crawford and TJ Echols

When you think logistics, your brain may conjure up thoughts of a warehouse full of goods, or the delivery company who didn’t get you that important package in time. But in the world of acquisition, logistics is so much more. Acquisition logistics isn’t just getting equipment from Point A to Point B – SYSCOM’s logisticians have critical input to all phases of the system’s lifecycle. From maintenance considerations, to ensuring the smallest of replacement parts is available, to planning for system disposal, logistics follows the system cradle to grave.

 

The Marine Corps is modernizing and adapting for the future fight – with logistics and maintenance playing a critical role. It is important for sustainability to be factored in throughout the program’s lifecycle to ensure we equip our warfighters with resilient capabilities.

 

On this episode, Tripp chats with TJ Echols and Master Gunnery Sergeant Judah Crawford, who support logistics and maintenance for our Commend Element Systems portfolio.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

  

Show notes:  

Movie: The Princess Bride 

Movie: Rocky and Creed series

May 25, 202344:03
Field Kitchens with MGySgt Morris Mayfield III

Field Kitchens with MGySgt Morris Mayfield III

Marines need a variety of equipment to ensure an unfair advantage, but one thing comes before everything else – food. The Shelters, Field Feeding and Containers, or S/FF/C, team acquires and sustains the Fleet Marine Force with tents, containerized maintenance shelters, cargo containers, and our topic today – field feeding equipment. Field feeding equipment provides Marines the right meal, at the right place, at the right time.

 

On this episode, Tripp sits down with MGySgt Morris Mayfield, subject matter expert for food service with the Field Feeding Team.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

 

Show notes:

Barracks Room Podcast

Tv shows: CSI, Law and Order, NCIS

May 11, 202339:30
G/ATOR with Barb Gault

G/ATOR with Barb Gault

Have you ever wanted a better view of the air on the battlefield? Well, Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar has entered the chat. G/ATOR multi-mission air surveillance system provides 360-degree coverage. As an ACAT I program, this system resides within Program Executive Officer Land Systems under Program Manager G/ATOR.

 

PM G/ATOR delivers the G/ATOR, a highly mobile multi-mission radar system designed to fully support expeditionary requirements for Marines worldwide.

 

On this episode, Tripp chats with Ms. Barb Gault, Deputy Program Manager for PM G/ATOR.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show notes:

Altered Carbon by Richard Morgan

Apr 27, 202320:30
Behind the Scenes with Capt. Billy Barefoot

Behind the Scenes with Capt. Billy Barefoot

Equipping a Marine doesn’t only mean gear. Marines need grit, resilience and above all else: paperwork. Let’s be honest, paperwork is at the heart of any government or military organization, and ensuring a Marine has their records and documentation in order is critical to their career and mission success. Admin officers are often the unsung heroes of a Command.

Manpower officers plan, track, monitor, coordinate, and distribute permanent manpower assets to meet staffing goals. They are behind the scenes ensuring Marines and Sailors are ready to serve when the Nation calls.

On this episode, we take a behind-the-scenes look into how a command functions with Staff Secretary for Marine Corps Systems Command, Capt. Billy Barefoot.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

 

 

Show notes:

 

Movie recommendation:

Lonesome Dove

Apr 13, 202344:23
Defense Innovation Unit with LtCol Glenn McCartan

Defense Innovation Unit with LtCol Glenn McCartan

The Defense Innovation Unit, or DIU, was established to accelerate the adoption of commercial technology throughout the U.S. military to ensure our forces continue to have a technological advantage over our adversaries and competitors. DIU partners with organizations across the Department of Defense, from the services and components to combatant commands and 4th estate agencies, to rapidly prototype and field advanced commercial solutions.

 

DIU is the only DoD organization focused exclusively on fielding and scaling commercial technology across the U.S. military at the speed of relevance. The DIU is focused on six technology areas where the commercial sector is leading the way: artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber and telecommunications, energy, human systems, and space.

 

On this episode, Tripp chats with DIU Liaisons Officer to the U.S. Marine Corps, Lt. Col. Glenn McCartan.

 

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

 

Show notes:

 

To learn more visit DIU.mil.

 

Book recommendations:

The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen

Mar 30, 202343:42
Advanced Manufacturing Systems Team with Maj Matthew Audette

Advanced Manufacturing Systems Team with Maj Matthew Audette

If you open any internet browser and search “3D Printing,” you can find countless items, large and small, that went from idea to reality with the help of 3D printing technology. What you may not know is the Marine Corps also uses this technology to provide organic logistics, supply, and sustainment solutions to the Fleet.

Marine Corps Systems Command’s Advanced Manufacturing Operations Cell, or AMOC, supports the service’s goal to employ advanced manufacturing throughout the Marine Corps. Once referred to as “the Corps’ on-call nerds” by our guest himself, the AMOC issues policy, certifies and stores files of 3D-printed parts, and maintains a 24/7 help desk to assist the Operating Forces in all things advanced manufacturing.

On this episode, Tripp sits down with Maj. Matthew Audette, Advanced Manufacturing Systems Team Lead for the AMOC.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show notes:

Book recommendations:

The Martian by Andy Weir

Project Hail Mary

Neptune’s Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by James D. Hornfischer

Mar 16, 202352:03
Special Operations Forces Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Center with Maj. Jonathan Ritchey
Mar 02, 202339:22
Expeditionary Medical Systems with CDR Kellye Donovan
Feb 16, 202347:42
TECOM Range Safety & Design with Carlos Hathcock III

TECOM Range Safety & Design with Carlos Hathcock III

In the Marine Corps, training isn’t something you do just once. Marines are continuously training and improving their skills, from physical fitness to rifle qualifications and beyond. They deepen their knowledge of military strategy through formal education programs and professional development. In addition, they train on how to use our gear properly and effectively. The Marine Corps’ training and Education Command is tasked with equipping Marines with the knowledge and training necessary for the fight.

TECOM provides unit, collective, and service-level training to enhance warfighting organizations that enable the Fleet Marine Force to build and sustain the combat readiness required to fight and win today and in the future. Its Range and Training Programs Division through range and training area management executes integrated programs for range, systems and training environments to achieve the TECOM mission.

On this episode, Tripp sits down with Carlos Hathcock, Head of TECOM’s Range Safety and Design that is a part of Range and Training Area Management.

Show notes:

Marine Sniper: 93 Confirmed Kills by Charles W. Henderson

Feb 02, 202342:13
Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicles with Lorrie Owens

Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicles with Lorrie Owens

Surviving and sustaining in an operational environment requires a logistical trail that will be ready and able to deliver the supplies and personnel needed to execute the mission. In short, it requires a fleet of capable haulers that can get the job done in any clime and place. There is no better example of that than the medium and heavy haulers the Marine Corps has been using for the last 20-plus years to get Marines and their gear to the front lines --- the MTVR and LVSR.

The Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement and the Logistics Vehicle System Replacement are the workhorses of the tactical vehicle fleet. The Marine Corps is evolving this vehicle fleet for greater survivability and lethality to ensure that when Marines call, the fleet is ready to roll!

The Marine Corps’ Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicles program’s mission is to manage the acquisition and life-cycle sustainment of Medium and Heavy Tactical Vehicle systems such as the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement fleet, Logistics Vehicle System Replacement, Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected Fleet, and the P19R Firefighting Truck.

On this episode, Tripp sits down with Lorrie Owens on the podcast to update us on everything happening in her program. Lorrie is the Program Manager for Medium/Heavy Tactical Vehicles in our Logistics Combat Element Systems portfolio.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show Notes

Book Recommendation

  • Don't Sweat the Small Stuff and It's All Small Stuff: Simple Ways to Keep the Little Things from Taking Over Your Life by Richard Carlson
Jan 19, 202328:04
Marine Corps Operational Test & Evaluation Activity with Col. Brock McDaniel

Marine Corps Operational Test & Evaluation Activity with Col. Brock McDaniel

Have you ever wondered how we test gear before it is fielded to Marines? Testing and evaluation is essential for Marine Corps leadership to make independent, objective and defensible acquisition decisions. One organization is tasked with ensuring this is possible - the Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity, also known as MCOTEA.

MCOTEA plans, executes and evaluates materiel solutions against warfighter requirements under realistic conditions to determine operational effectiveness and suitability. MCOTEA plans a major part in many of the systems we develop here at Marine Corps Systems Command. On today's episode, Tripp is joined by Col. Brock McDaniel, Director of MCOTEA.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies or positions of the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes

Recommendations:

  • Proverbs
  • Lincoln on Leadership by Donald T. Phillips
  • The Score Takes Care of Itself: My Philosophy on Leadership by Bill Walsh
Jan 05, 202333:43
Foreign Comparative Testing Program with Jackie Brent

Foreign Comparative Testing Program with Jackie Brent

The 2022 National Defense Strategy emphasizes that international partnerships and alliances remain a priority. In a time where we must continuously adapt, one thing remains true - building an unmatched international network of allies and partners makes us stronger. Marine Corps Systems Command works to ensure we develop warfighting capabilities with our allies and partners. Our International Programs office's mission is to advise on international acquisition efforts to foster partner interoperability, enable capability development, build enduring alliances and promote stability. Additionally, IP helps bring Marine Corps capabilities to the global fight - enabling allies and partners to employ state-of-the-art technology against potential adversaries. Tripp chats with Jacqueline Brent to tell us everything we need to know about Marine Corps Systems Command's International Programs Office. Jackie is the lead for the Marine Corps' Foreign Comparative Testing program. The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense. Show Notes: Podcast recommendation - Joel Osteen Podcast Oprah’s Super Soul Podcast Suzie Orman's Women & Money Podcast More information on FCT, can be found here: https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fac.cto.mil%2fpe%2ffct%2f.&c=E,1,jQiGMHMhq6M2UEgVYTdhuMPCn7mqDAHArpJ4iarNk9zZ9iK9QL07NotA7A8UjqVD-hgNWDB4dGMtUd0tivNaJKnJXX2fFT9h60MhNK5WM_8,&typo=1
Dec 08, 202220:54
Ground Radios with Maj. Joshua Kapp

Ground Radios with Maj. Joshua Kapp

Force Design 2030 guidance emphasizes the need for "resilient communication architectures capable of closing kill chains in austere environments." With that comes the need to equip our Marines with the communications equipment to meet that mission. Communication and information systems, such as ground radios, are critical to providing Marines reliable, secure and flexible communication networks - a critical component of our warfighter's tool kit. The modern battlespace relies on radios for situational awareness, decision-making and information sharing. 

Product Manager Ground Radios acquires the systems Marines need to communicate securely, including in satellite-denied environments. On this episode, Tripp chats with the Product Manager for Ground Radios, Maj. Joshua Kapp.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

Book recommendation - Introduction to the Devout Life by Francis de Sales

Nov 24, 202226:27
Fuel and Water with Maj. Craig Warner

Fuel and Water with Maj. Craig Warner

Have you ever wondered how Marines who might be operating out in the middle of nowhere have access to fuel and clean drinking water? These two resources are critical to sustaining our Marines in any environment. From fueling ourbodies to powering our vehicles, clean water and fuel are vital to the survivability of our forces.

Current and future operating environments require resilient and stable water production capabilities and versatile fuel systems with a minimal logistical burden. Marine Corps System Command's Fuel and Water Team is tasked with equipping the Fleet Marine Force with fuel and water systems to enable battlefield responsiveness, lethality and sustainability. They provide full lifecycle support for the Corps' fuel and water systems.

On today's episode, Tripp sits down with the man who ensures Marines have access to clean water and fuel in any clime or place. Maj. Craig Warner is the Team Lead for Fuel and Water in our Logistic Combat Element Systems Portfolio.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.


Show Notes:

Book recommendation - Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect

He Desperately Needs by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

Nov 10, 202242:11
Dressing Marines for Success with Emily Madden

Dressing Marines for Success with Emily Madden

From the first Marines at Tun Tavern to today’s modern force, one thing helps the world identify Marines in the field – their uniforms. As the nation’s only premier naval expeditionary force-in-readiness, the Marine Corps can be called upon to serve in any clime or place, and they need a selection of uniforms that can help them meet that mission.

Program Manager for Infantry Weapons Clothing and Equipment Team is responsible for designing, fielding and sustaining uniforms and other worn items for Marines across the globe, including physical training uniforms, maternity uniforms and extreme weather gear. Their efforts ensure Marines have a strong foundation

On this episode, Tripp chats with a clothing designer with U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center supporting PM IW, Emily Madden.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

Book recommendation – Outliers by Malcom Gladwell

Oct 27, 202221:01
Modernizing the MCEN with Keegan Mills

Modernizing the MCEN with Keegan Mills

Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David Berger’s Planning Guidance underscores the need for enterprise IT engineering and the importance of meeting peer competitors on a complex future battlefield. This future environment requires a unified network in which Marines can quickly transmit data for command and control purposes.

Cue Technical Management and Analysis Directorate, a team of technical experts tasked with modernizing the Marine Corps Enterprise Network, or MCEN. TMAD provides technical leadership and enterprise network configuration management to improve information-environment operations for the Naval Force. They assess new or critical technologies and provide technical recommendations about network changes that could impact operations from the tactical edge to the supporting establishment.

On this episode, Tripp sits down with the acting director of TMAD, Mr. Keegan Mills.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

TV show recommendation - Detectorist

Oct 13, 202234:12
Meet our New Host, Tripp Elliott

Meet our New Host, Tripp Elliott

On this bonus episode, Manny introduces Equipping the Corps’ new host, Tripp Elliott. Tripp is Marine Corps Systems Command’s Head of Command Safety. His charismatic, dedicated and his fun demeanor make him a ‘trip’ to work with. To learn more about Tripp, make sure to check out Episode 23, MCSC’s Command Safety Office with Tripp Elliott.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

TV show:

Gilligan’s Island

Hogan’s Heroes

Sep 29, 202217:41
S1 Ep26 Ground Based Air Defense with Don Kelley

S1 Ep26 Ground Based Air Defense with Don Kelley

Living in a world where the threat is constantly evolving and changing is challenging. Finding the technology and capabilities to meet and defeat those threats in a timely manner can sometimes prove twice as daunting. But for one team at Program Executive Office Land Systems, those challenges do not deter them, but rather energizes and drives them to find creative solutions for Marines who face those threats daily. They are the newest program team at PEO LS, the Ground Based Air Defense team, also known as GBAD. They are quickly making a name for themselves not only for the diverse capabilities that they will be fielding, but also for the speed in which they are getting that gear in the hands of Marines. On this episode, Manny chats with the Program Manager for GBAD, Don Kelley.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Sep 15, 202237:25
S1 Ep25 Logistics Combat Element Systems with Col. John Gutierrez

S1 Ep25 Logistics Combat Element Systems with Col. John Gutierrez

The Force Design 2030 update released in May emphasized that the Corps must continue to develop concepts for resilient logistics webs in a contested environment with multiple options for support, to include distribution networks, and multi-domain delivery methods. Marine Corps Systems Command’s Logistics Combat Element Systems Portfolio provides and sustains many of these capabilities for the Fleet Marine Force. LCES equips and sustains our Marines with engineering, supply, maintenance, ammunition and tactical wheeled vehicle systems and solutions to support various missions and enable lethality. On this episode, Manny sits down with the portfolio manager for LCES, Col. John Gutierrez.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

Book recommendation- Boyd: The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War by Robert Coram

Sep 01, 202237:41
S1 Ep24 Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory with Scott Lacy

S1 Ep24 Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory with Scott Lacy

The Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory or MCWL, is tasked by the Commandant to identify future challenges and opportunities, develop warfighting concepts, and comprehensively explore options available to the warfighter, in order to inform the combat development process to meet the challenges of the future operating environment. In more simplistic terms, the Lab is tasked with the experimentation and wargaming required to inform the needs and capabilities of the future battlefield. As I have mentioned before on previous episodes, Marine Corps acquisition is a team sport and MCWL plays a huge role on that team. On this episode, Manny chats with the Chief of Staff for MCWL and Deputy Director of Futures Division, Mr. Scott Lacy.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes:

Podcast recommendation- Building the Base

Book recommendation- The End of the World Is Just the Beginning: Mapping the Collapse of Globalization by Peter Zeihan

Aug 18, 202235:41
S1 Ep23 MCSC’s Command Safety Office with Tripp Elliott

S1 Ep23 MCSC’s Command Safety Office with Tripp Elliott

Marine Corps Systems Command is responsible for a lot of high-value gear, but our people remain our most valuable asset. One office at Marine Corps Systems Command is tasked with the great responsibility of ensuring our Marines are safe and preventable mishaps are eliminated throughout the acquisition process— the Command Safety Office. The Command Safety Office provides assistance and education to program management teams and promotes the commander’s Safety and Occupational Health policy. The expertise delivered by the office enhances the testing and fielding of safe and environmentally sound ground equipment and weapons systems. On this episode, Manny sits down with the man leading our safety efforts, Tripp Elliott.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Show Notes: Contact MCSC Command Safety Office mcsc_safety@usmc.mil

Book recommendations- Sailors to the End: The Deadly Fire on the USS Forrestal and the Heroes Who Fought It by Gregory A. Freeman

Aug 04, 202241:11
S1 Ep22 MCSC's New Commander Shares Vision, Priorities with BGen David Walsh

S1 Ep22 MCSC's New Commander Shares Vision, Priorities with BGen David Walsh

On June 9, Marine Corps Systems Command welcomed a new Commander, BGen David Walsh. He’s an aviator by trade with a wealth of acquisition knowledge including time serving as the USMC Light/Attack Helicopters assistant program manager for systems engineering for the Marine Aviation Detachment at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. During that period, he was selected as part of the first cadre of Marine Corps Acquisition Officers. Throughout his 30-year career, he grew from a young aviator in various Marine operational squadrons to being the individual responsible for much of the gear in those squadrons to ultimately the head of all Marine Corps ground and IT acquisition. On this episode, Manny sits down with BGen Walsh to discuss his goals and priorities for the command.

Show Notes

Book recommendations-

Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher and William Ury

Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Start with Why by Simon Sinek

Jul 21, 202229:49
S1 Ep21 Marine Corps Recruiting Information Support System with Jason Glavich

S1 Ep21 Marine Corps Recruiting Information Support System with Jason Glavich

Marine Corps Systems Command collaborated with Marine Corps Recruiting Command to develop the Marine Corps Recruiting Information Support System, also known as MCRISS. This system has been vital in streamlining recruiting operations, enabling the command and control of systematic recruiting operations across all distributed locations from coast-to-coast. The latest version, MCRISS II, is a mobile platform that provides Marines with their recruiting needs from the moment they meet an applicant to the time they leave for boot camp. On this episode, Manny chats with the program manager for MCRISS, Jason Glavich.

Jul 07, 202230:39
S1 Ep20 STEM with Joy Champion

S1 Ep20 STEM with Joy Champion

Engineers are critical to the design, development, testing and fielding of systems and gear supporting our Marines. Chemical, software, systems, electrical, mechanical - all types of engineers make up the SYSCOM team to ensure our Marines have the gear they need to succeed and win in the battlefields of today and tomorrow. Unknowingly, many of those engineers got their start when, at a younger age, they participated in a STEM event. Science Technology Engineering and Math, or STEM, programs and activities provide an opportunity for today's youth to have exposure to what a career in STEM may look like and helps ensure we develop the next generation of engineers. Manny sits down with the Command's engineering competency lead and federal STEM action officer, Ms. Joy Champion.

Jun 23, 202234:37
S1 Ep19 Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program with Col. Wendell Leimbach

S1 Ep19 Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program with Col. Wendell Leimbach

The Joint Intermediate Force Capabilities Office is responsible for the management of the Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program and serves as the focal point for technical and programmatic guidance of current and projected joint non-lethal weapons technologies. The office provides programmatic recommendations and facilitates joint non-lethal weapons requirements by ensuring that funding supports the joint non-lethal weapons systems that the Department of Defense or combatant commands have identified as needs. The Marine Corps is the executive agency for the Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program and as such, its director is an acquisition Marine. Manny chats with the man at the helm, the director of the JNLW program, Col. Wendell Leimbach.

Movie Recommendation- Kelly’s Heroes

Jun 09, 202240:43
S1 Ep18 Testing and Evaluation with Dr. Karen McGrady

S1 Ep18 Testing and Evaluation with Dr. Karen McGrady

Test & Evaluation, or T&E, assists in the risk management process involved in developing, producing, operating, and sustaining systems and capabilities. T&E provides additional information on system capabilities and limitations to the acquisition community to improve the system’s performance and optimize its operational use and sustainment. It also provides an opportunity for program managers to learn about any technical or operational limitations of a system so they can be resolved prior to production and fielding. T&E is an integral part of the systems engineering process and this week Manny chats with the command’s testing and evaluation lead, Dr. Karen McGrady.

Show Notes: Recommended Reading- Call Sign Chaos: Learning to Lead by Jim Mattis and Bing West

May 26, 202245:43
S1 Ep17 Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch with Lt. Col. Scott Graniero

S1 Ep17 Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch with Lt. Col. Scott Graniero

Conducting amphibious operations is part of the Marine Corps DNA and amphibious vehicles have been a critical component to Marine Corps operations since their introduction during WWII. The names and models have changed but one thing has remained constant since their development. Before many of them first crossed the surf in the Pacific, they most likely spent some time in the shores of California at a small test facility called the Amphibious Vehicle Test Branch, or AVTB. During the preceding decades, AVTB maintained an integral role in testing many variants and upgrades of the Amphibious Assault Vehicle, the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle, the Marine Personnel Carrier, the Amphibious Assault Vehicle Survivability Upgrade and most recently the Amphibious Combat Vehicle. Manny has the pleasure of speaking with the AVTB Director, LtCol Scott Graniero. The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense. Recommended Reading- Defense Acquisition Research Journal https://www.dau.edu/library/arj/ U.S. Naval Institute https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings?gclid=Cj0KCQjwjN-SBhCkARIsACsrBz6Z8ARFydAiPTdfAVzN76Vl33m_2SFk7fs5aWCQrcwjAWWqwiZg1bcaAnJEEALw_wcB Marine Corps Gazette https://mca-marines.org/magazines/marine-corps-gazette/

May 12, 202246:16
S1 Ep16 Evolving the Future Force with Gen. Eric Smith

S1 Ep16 Evolving the Future Force with Gen. Eric Smith

In July of 2019, the Commandant of the Marine Corps published his planning guidance. In it was a bold vision to modernize the Corps to meet rapidly evolving future threats. This vision is Force Design 2030. As General Berger developed his strategy, he also made some very important assignments, tasking his respective Deputy Commandants with critical requirements in building the Corps of the future. One of those was the DC for Combat Development and Integration who bore the responsibility of not only developing the requirements, but also conducting experimentation efforts to validate concepts, working through plans to divest of capabilities that did not meet future needs, and ultimately creating decision space for the Commandant to make informed decisions on Force Design 2030. That individual spent nearly two years conducting those studies and analysis, and burning the midnight oil to get the Corps to where it is today --- a strategic naval response force ready to answer our nations’ calls and meet and defeat any future threat. This week Manny has the honor of sitting down with the Corps’ 36th Assistant Commandant, General Eric Smith.

The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.

Book recommendation - For Country and Corps: The Life of General Oliver P. Smith

Apr 28, 202240:02
S1 Ep15 Amphibious Combat Vehicle New Equipment Training Team with Sgt. Juwan White

S1 Ep15 Amphibious Combat Vehicle New Equipment Training Team with Sgt. Juwan White

Manny joins Sgt. Juwan White on Camp Pendleton, California to discuss the Amphibious Combat Vehicle’s New Equipment Training Team. The NETT is responsible for learning everything there is to know about the ACV. They then train the Marines who will eventually be operating those vehicles in the operational forces.
The views expressed in this podcast reflect those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions or the United States Marine Corps or Department of Defense.
Book recommendation- Marines in the Garden of Eden by Richard S. Lowry
Apr 14, 202227:07