Lave&Wenger: Naval Quartermasters

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Summary Novice naval quartermasters move from broad and minimal duties to very specific, detailed duties as they gain expertise. Some go to specialized training schools to learn terminology, however, this does not substitute for on the job training. In fact, quartermaster chiefs prefer able bodied seamen with no training to eliminate breaking bad habits learned in school. Novice quartermasters do participate in apprenticeship alongside more experienced colleagues as a watch stander and sea and anchor detail. The experienced quartermaster will oversee and provide assistance while the novice performs the expected duties. There are 6 positions in sea and anchor detail that a novice quartermaster must master, one by one, before standing watch. Every member must go through this process so there is an overlapping of expertise. The big picture is for everyone to be able to detect, diagnose, and correct errors.

Learning Trajectory For a novice to learn the basics, it is about one year of training. Novice must have several months of experience before they can stand watch. From there, there is ongoing mastery at all levels (novice and experienced).

Community of Practice There is an interdependence among the members of the naval team is key to getting the job done. The members have to communicate, support, collaborate, and trust each other. Morale is high and individual members have to be able to do a "self-check" to determine their ability to organize their role in completing the duties.