Radar Models Published Nov. 3, 2009 By Angela Cutrer Keesler News Staff KEESLER AFB, Miss -- The 338th Training Squad-ron's ground radar apprentice course started off with a fresh new approach to training. Class 10001 started Block 1 of a 16-block, 4½-month course, and instead of purely imagining the radar systems they'll be working on, students now have the option of more in-depth exposure about their career fields thanks to new tools in the classroom. "Instructors are always looking for ways to improve their training materials, audio and visual aids and teaching techniques," said Edward Rush, a 338th TRS instructor. "The kickoff of the new cyberspace career field inspired some great ideas for training enhancements in the classroom." In September, Mr. Rush had the idea to create for the classroom a model airfield complete with all the different radar systems it uses. "Since we can't bring the radars into the classroom, models are the next best thing to introduce our students to their new career field," he said. He built small three-dimensional paper models using yellow Post-it Notes to show scale to the developers. Using the paper models, pictures and other sources, project manager Larry Shook and his team from the 81st Training Support Squadron's training development flight put their skills to the test. Now the radar trainers have found their way to the classroom. "Working with a vision of the course instructors and scaled samples, trainer development brought to reality a simulated airfield," said Mr. Shook. "A wide variety of modeling techniques were utilized, including machining and milling of intricate parts, wood crafting and multiple finishing processes. What we have created will be a representation of real-world operations brought right into the classroom, just on a smaller scale." Mr. Shook added that though the request was atypical, the group was glad to face the challenge. "This is not the type of work (model building) that we typically do," he said. "Our machinists, woodworkers and finishing section rose to the occasion and let their creative juices flow. The attention to detail, quality and pride of workmanship is, however, something that goes into all of our projects." Mr. Rush couldn't be more pleased with the results. "Having a physical model of the radar systems we teach about in the course helps students retain the characteristics of each radar," said Mr. Rush. "This will allow them to better identify each radar and its respective capabilities and limitations." "This is the student's first exposure to their career field," Mr. Rush said. "I can't think of a better way to motivate them and bring a little realism-in-training to the classroom."