ALCOAST 207/24 - MAY 2024 COAST GUARD WATCHSTATION QUALIFICATION STANDARDS (WQS)

R 061118Z MAY 24   MID120001081353U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 207/24
SSIC 16672
SUBJ: COAST GUARD WATCHSTATION QUALIFICATION STANDARDS (WQS)
A. Cutter Training and Qualification Manual, COMDTINST M3502.4K
B. Coast Guard Navigation Standards Manual, COMDTINST M3530.2F
1. This ALCOAST is to announce the release of the revised Bridge
Operations WQS (BOW) Performance Signoff Guide, Study Handbook,
and updated exams (v1.0).
2. As outlined by REF (A), the WQS system is an afloat training
program developed for all cutter classes, employing assigned reading
materials, practical task completion, and standardized
multiple-choice tests.
3. Earlier versions of bridge WQS are cancelled on August 1, 2024 to
allow members a transition period to complete their current bridge
WQS certification requirements. Newly reported members are required
to begin BOW v1.0. Commanding officers and officers in charge may
extend use of current versions on a case-by-case basis, considering
factors such as unique personnel situations and the cutter's
operational schedule.
4. Significant changes to the qualification program include:
    a. The BOW is comprised of a series of performance signoff guides
containing eight chapters with ANY and TYPE task designators,
beginning with Helm and Lookout and progressively assembled towards
completion of underway Officer of the Deck. The performance signoff
guide is a printable document for trainees to pursue certifications
and requires completion of individual chapter Knowledge Checks
which are comprised of multiple choice, labeling, and fill-in-the-
blank questions linked to associated tasks.
    b. New qualification guides are provided in accordance with
REF (B), including formal signoffs for Bearing Taker/Recorder and
Radar Operator/Shipping Officer.
    c. The BOW Study Handbook is a comprehensive guide with
corresponding chapters describing underway fundamentals and how
they apply to cutter operations. Primary references are cited
throughout each chapter.
    d. Commanding officers and officers in charge may defer TYPE
tasks required by the WQS that fall outside cutter class required
operational capabilities or projected operational environment,
or tasks not applicable to a cutter class (e.g., different bridge
equipment, propulsion systems, etc.). Deferred tasks shall be
annotated in each watchstander's certification documentation.
5. Prior or current qualifications. Recertification shall be IAW
Chapter 5 of REF (A). Members who are currently qualified and are
authorized to stand the watch independently at their current unit
and are not required to re-qualify using the new WQS material.
Members reporting aboard a new cutter class with existing bridge
position certifications shall re-qualify by completing TYPE tasks
in the new BOW guide, followed by an exam and oral board to
demonstrate knowledge and understanding. Commands shall review
members' previous BOW certification deferred tasks and require the
completion of tasks where the deferred circumstances are no longer
applicable.
6. Prospective Commanding Officer (PCO) Familiarization: PCOs should
reference TYPE tasks to guide underway familiarization focus when
reporting to a new cutter class.
7. BOW v1.0 is available for download on COMDT (CG-751)'s Individual
Qualification Programs SharePoint site at:
(Copy and Paste URL Below into Browser)

https://uscg.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/cg751/IQP/SitePages/Home.aspx

Unit XOs and Training Officers may obtain required test questions
and answers by emailing WQS-Helpdesk@uscg.mil.
8. Specific, actionable feedback is critical to enhancing the
quality of WQS products. Please submit feedback or questions
regarding general use and support to the WQS Help Desk.
9. The Individual Qualifications Program manager will host a
presentation via Teams in June to field questions and share updates
on current and future projects related to the afloat qualification
system. Date/time to be sent SEPCOR.
10. POC: Mr. Robert Craighead; Robert.D.Craighead2@uscg.mil.
11. Ms. Lisa Schleder-Kirkpatrick, SES, Acting Assistant Commandant
for Capability (CG-7), sends.
12. Internet release is authorized.