Analysis of the Perceived Adequacy of Current Programs to Prepare Civil Engineering Officers to Assume the Responsibilities of Base Civil Engineer

摘要

The purpose of this thesis was to determine the perceived adequacy of current programs to prepare civil engineering officers to assume the responsibilities of Base Civil Engineer. Research questions consisted of determining which existing civil engineering positions and AFIT short courses were most useful to Base Civil Engineers, and gathering suggestions for improvement to the existing system. A survey questionnaire was developed and distributed to Base Civil Engineers in the continental United States. Analysis of survey responses indicated that almost all respondents believed they had been adequately prepared to become Base Civil Engineers. Experience in four areas was considered to be of high value - operations, engineering (with an emphasis on programming), management consultant services, and readiness. A variety of experience at all levels, with a strong background at base level, was also perceived as beneficial. It was concluded that current programs are adequate to prepare civil engineering officers for the position of Base Civil Engineer; however, Base Civil Engineers seemed to place a higher value on previous assignments than on AFIT short courses. Additional emphasis was recommended in the areas of commander responsibilities, fire protection, and financial management.