Live Chat Technology Helps Resolve IT Issues at Tobyhanna Live chat technology is a fast, efficient and convenient way for computer users to get in touch with Tobyhanna Army Depot’s information technology (IT) customer service team. Personnel experiencing problems with government-issued computers or peripheral equipment can click on the orange “support button” icon located on their desktop to live chat with IT experts trained to resolve any situation. Customers can reach out in the exact moment they have questions or problems they cannot solve. Beyond improving the customer experience, the ability to increase team productivity – combined with data collection – can lead Team Tobyhanna to greater success with live chat as part of its customer support plan. “The new chat feature and corresponding support tool is a force multiplier for the customer service branch,” said IT Specialist Sean Malone, Resource Management Directorate, Information Management Division. “We are able to help more people, more efficiently, and with just a few clicks, it’s even easier for the customer to request and receive assistance.” The live chat provides an easy to use customer interface, while maintaining a robust set of administrative tools, features and options, which allows the help desk agent to quickly view, troubleshoot and resolve issues, according to IT Specialist Dave Kutch. “This enhanced tool results in most issues being resolved quickly and within first contact,” Kutch said. Army standards dictate the amount of time technicians have to respond to and close a request; it varies with each task. Implementing innovative ideas such as the live chat, walk in service desk, and knowledge base library help the organization meet those requirements. “Everyone on my staff has access to the live chat capability whether they are working on or off the installation,” said Matthew Raup, Customer Service Branch chief. “The data we are able to collect with this new technology can help us track information such as how long people are waiting in the queue, the number of completed chat sessions and types of concerns.” The system also provides a transcript of each session that can be used for accountability and training, he added. Personnel can use other methods to get help with their IT issues, but the new live chat feature will be a game changer for getting the support they need, according to Malone. Personnel can submit work requests using the IT Service Desk link on the depot’s intranet site. For the do-it-yourselfers out there, the IT Knowledge Base link [also on the intranet] provides information on a number of topics. Technicians working at the service desk are available to address simple customer issues on the spot, loan IT equipment and assist users in entering help tickets for situations that require complex solutions. Lastly, people can still request assistance by dialing 5-6677; however, using the legacy phone system offers fewer options to help the customer. According to Raup the best anyone can do is leave a voice mail message, which due to the volume of calls and work tickets, could go unnoticed. The technician response time using the live chat feature averages less than two minutes. Users can continue working while waiting for a technician to come on the line, plus watch as they progress through the queue. Customer service representatives can also see the people waiting in line. “As a tech, I feel like I can be very productive using the chat feature,” said Jessica Holliman-Wilson, IT specialist. “I’m able to grab multiple chats at a time and work them all at my own pace. I’m able to provide the same level of customer service as if they are talking to me face to face.” Printer problems prompted a program analyst in the C4ISR Directorate to test the support button icon one day. “I am so thrilled with the new app,” said Christine Shuleski. “The IT technician responded quickly and once I explained what was going on, he was able to resolve the issue in a matter of minutes.” Shuleski said the live chat was such a positive experience, she asked about two other issues. All three problems were settled within about 20 minutes. The number of users and systems connected to the network far outnumber the IT experts who strive to meet or exceed customer expectations every day. The customer service branch continues to improve products, services or processes with conscious, deliberate intent to continuously invest and focus on getting better. “We’re heading in the right direction with the steps we’re making to improve customer service,” Raup said. “My goal is to fix the computer issues through whatever means possible by providing the tools and information needed to streamline the customer experience.”
Tobyhanna Army Depot News Bridge Supplemental Set Workload Shows Tobyhanna’s Diverse Capabilities The Bridge Supplemental Set (BSS) is a system designed to assist Bridge Erection Boats (BEB) on long-term bridging missions while our warfighters are on deployment. The widely used BSS concept dates back to the 1960s. In certain situations, the BSS is pivotal to keeping soldiers focused on the task at hand. In the event a river must be crossed, BEBs would be brought in to build a surface that can be crossed by our warfighters. However, on long-term missions, BEBs can become expensive to maintain and take a lot of time to operate, affecting warfighter readiness. This is where the BSS comes in. The erection of a BSS over a body of water keeps the traveling surface in place and eliminates the need for BEBs on long-term missions. This supports our warfighters by allowing them not to worry about BEB upkeep and allows them to focus on their primary mission. With ever changing challenges on the battlefield, the way the BSS is designed was due for an upgrade, so a set for the modern era has been created. Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) has taken on the exciting challenge of constructing and delivering this new design to our warfighters and with it, comes the opportunity to not only benefit TYAD, but more importantly to assist in our mission of supporting the warfighter. Logistics Management Specialist Tracy Kraftchisin worked with Production Engineering personnel to solicit and onboard the workload. Before obtaining the workload, TYAD first had to compete in a market questionnaire. The depot received formal notification that it was chosen to support the BSS in May 2019. The design, development and pre-production process was lengthy, as the asset comprises more than 20 cases of equipment containing almost 400 individual pieces – everything from shadowboxes, racks, casing and much more. Kraftchisin said the opportunity to work on the BSS provided many benefits to TYAD. “This was an opportunity to showcase TYAD’s test engineering, design development and fabrication in support of overhaul capabilities to expand sustainment operations for the BSS – ensuring support to both strategic and tactical Army readiness,” said Kraftchisin. “The BSS workload presented an excellent strategic opportunity for Team Tobyhanna in support of our TOBY 2028 Shape the Future efforts.” Kraftchisin works in the Strategic Initiatives Office. Although the overall BSS design wasn’t created by TYAD, many of the asset’s components were designed by depot engineers. Producing the BSS kits is a complex process, involving numerous production shops in the Systems Integration and Support Directorate and spanning more than 3,488 hours. The BSS workload is a unique one for TYAD as it comes from the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM). Mechanical Engineer Joseph Samsell has been heavily involved with the workload ever since TYAD took it on and said that our ability to get the work done proves that the depot is capable of accepting diverse types of work. “Taking on new and challenging missions demonstrates to our current and future customers that Team Tobyhanna is capable of supporting any warfighter requirement,” said Samsell. Logistics Management Specialist Christopher Lupole agreed, saying that the depot has much to offer its customers. “The successful completion of the BSS effort at TYAD has brought more notice to the depot’s overall life cycle logistics capabilities. Most potential customers that aren’t too familiar with TYAD hear the word ‘Depot’ and tend to think of us as a warehouse or strictly maintenance facility. In reality, TYAD has much more to offer potential customers.” said Lupole. “BSS has put [our] additional capabilities at the forefront and allows the rest of the Department of Defense community to see how supportive TYAD can be for their weapon systems. In the end, our mission is to support the Warfighter to the best of our ability and BSS is only one great example of how TYAD has done that in recent years.” Lupole works in Tobyhanna’s Strategic Initiatives Office and is part of the team responsible for onboarding new workload. The BSS program is expected to run through 2028. BSS Project Manager Stacey Taylor lauded the people behind BSS, emphasizing that their teamwork really helped push this workload past the finish line. “[The] BSS [workload] has proved that unity is strength and when there is teamwork and most importantly collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. I am proud to be part of such a talented, hardworking, & motivated organization,” said Taylor. “The BSS system will showcase the capabilities that TYAD has to offer to future customers. Team Tobyhanna is dedicated to our warfighter and we look forward to the future.” Commitment, Selfless Service Lead to High Accolade for Packaging Center Employee A distinguished career supporting military logistics requirements paid off in a big way last month for David Gomes. The senior packaging specialist was the sole 2022 inductee into the Military Packaging Hall of Fame, an honor bestowed upon him by the National Institute of Packaging, Handling and Logistics Engineers (NIPHLE) during the organization’s annual training event in May. Gomes, who works in the Army Sustainment Command’s Packaging, Storage and Containerization Center (PSCC), says the experience was humbling. “I am truly honored and grateful that I was nominated and accepted into the Military Packaging Hall of Fame,” he said. “I couldn’t have achieved this without the wonderful co-workers I have had along the way.” PSCC Packaging and Transportation Division Chief Rebecca Cimino nominated Gomes for the Hall of Fame. In her submission to NIPHLE, Cimino cited Gomes’ long and impressive career within the government – more than 26 years of dedicated service. He began his government career in 1996 at Sierra Army Depot, where he was selected into the Quality Assurance Specialist (Ammunition Surveillance) (QASAS) Internship Program in 2001. He eventually became a QASAS instructor, transitioning into a Packaging Training Development and Instructor position at the Defense Ammunition Center in 2008. Gomes joined the PSCC team in 2015 and has accomplished much in a short amount of time. Perhaps his most notable achievement is leading the team responsible for the development and implementation of a redesigned PACK 2 Military Packaging Design Course. The training, which educates Department of Defense (DoD) personnel on techniques to properly design packaging, leverages the expertise of PSCC’s in-house personnel and the resources available in their Packaging Applications Testing Facility. He also serves as the Army Component Manager for the DoD Wood Packaging Materials Program and an Action Officer for PSCC’s Stock Readiness Compliance Inspections. Cimino says there aren’t many employees like Gomes. “He is the ideal logistics professional who continues to strive for innovative ways to improve packaging processes and develop new procedures, doctrine, or instructional aides to address gaps in the DoD packaging community. His contributions will have a positive effect on current and future packaging professionals for decades to come.” Less than 100 people overall have been inducted into NIPHLE’s Military Packaging Hall of Fame, which was created in 1990 to recognize those whose leadership and technical expertise has contributed to the successful development of the packaging industry. Gomes is only the second inductee from PSCC. Past inductees include who served the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, DLA, GSA and the private sector. PSCC, located on-post at Tobyhanna Army Depot, is the Department of Defense’s (DoDs) largest packaging applications testing facility, providing a wide variety of technical support for multiple DoD customers. Those interested in learning more about the course or about PSCC’s unmatched facilities and team, please call 570-615-7257 or visit PSCC’s website at https://www.pscc.army.mil/
Tobyhanna Army Depot Participate in Emergency Training Scenarios Tobyhanna Army Depot will participate in emergency training scenarios this week from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The exercises are designed to evaluate the depot’s capabilities to respond to different scenarios. Visitors and employees may notice an increased use of emergency services vehicles, and security personnel carrying weapons and tactical equipment during the exercise. The public should not be alarmed if they see personnel responding to simulations or hear the associated noises such as blank gunfire or sirens. Exercises like this are held regularly to provide insight into Tobyhanna’s capabilities and improve upon emergency response processes. For more information, call the Tobyhanna Army Depot Public Affairs Office at, 570-615-7308.
Tobyhanna Employees Recognized for Earning Certification Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) employees who achieve the Certified Electronics Technician (CET) accreditation are now being publicly recognized for their accomplishment. CET status can be achieved at a few levels, the first being the Associate Level, then the Journeyman Level, Senior Level and finally, the Master Level. Once certification at any level has been obtained, yearly renewal is required in order to ensure technicians are keeping up with advances in technology. The CET initiative is directly aligned with Tobyhanna’s long-range strategic plan, TOBY2028, particularly the Invest in Our People, Shaping the Future and C5ISR Readiness lines of effort. Employees who achieve any level of certification will be honored with their name and photo on a plaque displayed near the C4ISR Directorate Office. The effort is designed to ensure employees are receiving the recognition they deserve for putting in the hard work required to pursue the certification. Electronics worker Adam Zuroski is among recent recipients of the certification. He said he thinks it is great that TYAD is recognizing those who have been obtaining the CET certification which will benefit the depot’s customers. “I think it is fantastic. I really appreciate the support from my supervisors and all of my peers,” said Zuroski. “Being able to say we have certified technicians working on customer assets will be great for Tobyhanna.” Electronics Mechanic Leader Brian Kohn is another recent recipient of the CET certification. He said he believes becoming certified has made him more prepared for his professional future. “I believe earning this certification has prepared me for the work that is to come,” said Kohn. Obtaining a CET certification has proven to be a great benefit to TYAD. As more employees earn it, work becomes more efficient, customer satisfaction increases and it gives the depot a competitive edge against competitors. Depot officials state that employees receive a significant benefit from earning the certification as well as it keeps them up-to-date on current best practices in the industry and proves their commitment to the warfighter, who is the most important beneficiary. As employee confidence and commitment increases, warfighter satisfaction increases. Chief of the Avionics Division John Stochla said he believes those who choose to pursue a CET Certification will be set up for success today and into the future. “I believe education improves development on a personal level. [The CET program] is very good for refreshing people’s expertise and this is one step in our progression that will keep our development high,’ said Stochla. “I feel we are putting people in a position to be successful.” Stochla explained that employees pursuing the CET certification will receive extensive preparation to ensure they are confident in the subject matter. Some preparation methods include supervisory coaching, a study guide, a week-long refresher course and the ability to take the exam whenever the employee is ready within a two year span. Division Operations Manager Jeffery O’Neill said he believes earning the CET certification adds even more capabilities to TYAD’s already talented workforce. “Certified Electronics Technician certifications provide proof of your knowledge in the electronics field,” said O’Neill. “We all need to challenge ourselves periodically, I would encourage anyone who is interested in additional information on the CET to reach out to your directorate POCs.” Zuroski said although passing the exam was tough and required a lot of studying, it is very attainable to those who put in the effort. “I enjoy challenges, so obtaining the CET certification really gave me something to work for,” said Zuroski. “Passing it definitely gave me a lot of personal gratification.” Kohn echoed Zuroski’s sentiments, emphasizing that earning the certification is worth it and that people shouldn’t be deterred by the work. “You’re never going to become a jedi if you don’t pick up your lightsaber,” said Kohn. “You have to know the book to pass the test, but earning the certification is very attainable.” Employees interested in obtaining the CET self-paced study guide can reach out to the Employee Development Division at X56492. The guide is published by Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) and falls in- line with the computerized exam. For further information regarding the certification, employees can visit the ETA-I website at https://www.eta-i.org/.
Tobyhanna Expands Role in Modernizing Army Command Centers Soldiers in the field can now safely connect with their leadership at home – all thanks to a rapidly-growing workload at Tobyhanna Army Depot. A cross-functional group of employees continue to support installation and upgrade missions for the Home Station Mission Command Center (HSMCC) and Mission Command Facilities (MCF) programs, which establish and improve joint operations mission centers around the world. Like a situation room, the facilities are outfitted with high-end teleconferencing equipment such as projectors, video monitors, microphones, and speakers for real-time communication, visibility and decision-making. The growing workload is directly aligned with Tobyhanna’s long-range strategic plan, TOBY2028, which has four focus areas: Investing in Our People, C5ISR Readiness, Shape the Future and Strategic Communications. TOBY2028 aims to posture the depot for success in the coming years as the Department of Defense’s premier worldwide C5ISR readiness provider. Tobyhanna’s previous support of the program was limited to electrical work and equipment installation. Customers were continuously impressed by Team Tobyhanna’s work under tight timelines; as a result, they expanded the scope of work to include carpentry, wood fabrication, networking upgrades, wireless installations and engineering support with assistance in mission design. A previous depot mission to Fort Bragg, North Carolina found depot team members transforming an open work bay into a state-of-the-art HSMCC, with carpenters on-site building walls to create the new space, while woodworking artisans back home crafted cabinetry and a credenza to enhance the project. The finished product resulted in 50 feet of handmade cabinetry, custom-designed for the HSMCC. Those involved say the effort was a unique challenge. “The main objective for the cabinets was to cover up the wiring and improve the aesthetics of the HSMCC,” said Kyle Oakley. “Our team did a great job taking a basic concept and bringing it to life as pieces of expertly crafted furniture – not something we do every day. Our customer was very pleased.” Oakley is a work leader in the System Integration and Support (SIS) Directorate’s Equipage Branch. Personnel also took on a new challenge during a MCF mission at Fort Carson in Colorado recently, installing a high-tech LED micro-tile video wall and all video processing equipment. The tile-based displays offer unlimited design freedom, exceptional visual quality, and less complex installation requirements – but presented a vastly different process from previous technological installs. Equipage Branch Chief Nathaniel Isaac praised his team’s performance. “There has never been a request too large or too small, too difficult or too easy for my team. They always achieve amazing results with a finished product that expresses the high level of expertise they possess,” he said. Fellow SIS Chief Robert Olshefski agreed. “I am very proud of our team and their willingness to accept and thrive with new challenges.” Olshefski leads the Electrical Cable Branch in SIS. The collaborative SIS teams will support several comprehensive MCF missions in the future at sites such as Redstone Arsenal, Fort Knox, and Fort Drum. Successful HSMCC installations were previously completed for the Indianapolis Army National Guard’s 38th Infantry Division, Pennsylvania Army National Guard’s 28th Infantry Division; the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina; the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carlson, Colorado; and the 25th Infantry Division at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Tobyhanna Army Depot is a recognized leader in providing world-class logistics support for command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems across the Department of Defense. Tobyhanna’s Corporate Philosophy, dedicated work force and electronics expertise ensure the depot is the Joint C5ISR provider of choice for all branches of the Armed Forces and industry partners. Tobyhanna’s unparalleled capabilities include full-spectrum logistics support for sustainment, overhaul and repair, fabrication and manufacturing, engineering design and development, systems integration, post production software support, technology insertion, modification, foreign military sales and global field support to our joint warfighters. About 3,500 personnel are employed at Tobyhanna, which is located in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. Tobyhanna Army Depot is part of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command. Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the command’s mission is to empower the Soldier with winning C5ISR capabilities.
Tobyhanna Celebrates Employees During Engineers Week Tobyhanna Army Depot observed Engineers Week from February 20-26 by shining a spotlight on some of its outstanding engineers. Founded in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers, the observance brings attention to the skills and contributions of engineers worldwide. Tobyhanna employs more than 300 engineers in a variety of disciplines, including chemical; civil; computer; electrical; electronics; industrial; mechanical; and software engineering. Civil Engineer Nicolas Stoker Civil Engineer Nicolas Stoker of the Installation Services Directorate plays an important role for Team Tobyhanna. The depot newcomer leads the Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization team and currently manages more than $40M in modernization projects across the depot – within the gates and beyond. A lifelong interest in construction led Stoker to the field of civil engineering, which encompasses a variety of infrastructure services such as utilities, water, and wastewater services. “Most people don’t realize that civil engineers build far more than bridges and roads,” he said, adding that his position with Team Tobyhanna is truly gratifying. “While construction projects are never easy, I appreciate reaching the end goal, which is making sure everyone on Team Tobyhanna can do their jobs. It is satisfying to see an empty warehouse transform into a state-of-the-art facility that supports our mission and, ultimately, the warfighter.” Stoker is no stranger to military processes after attending the Military College of South Carolina –more commonly known as The Citadel – as a civilian to earn his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He says the experience was invaluable. “Attending The Citadel helped shape me as a team member and a person.” Stoker’s teammates applauded his contributions to the team and Tobyhanna’s mission. “Nic is a one of the most focused, diligent, organized, attentive, and driven engineers I have ever worked with. He motivates other members of the team and sets a good example for other engineers as well as technicians,” said Chris Sheerer, chief of the Site Installation and Satellite Communication Engineering branch in the Production Engineering Directorate. Mechanical Engineer Jenny Battenberg also earned accolades for her technical skill, tenacity and passion. “Jenny is hardworking, dedicated to her programs and strong-willed. She is not afraid to say how she feels about something and I admire that in her. I am thankful to call her a teammate,” said Nathan Thomas, deputy director of Production Engineering. As a young person, Battenberg did not aspire to a career in mechanical engineering. Unsure of her long-term goals, she applied and was accepted to Walt Disney World’s (WDW’s) intern program – an experience that taught her lessons she uses today. Fabrication Engineers like Jenny Battenberg perform work on-site at locations around the world, like this one in Italy. “Working at WDW was an adventure and everything they do comes down to design – just like my job at Tobyhanna. I remember being amazed at how carefully they planned swapping out holiday décor at the park. Inspired by their ingenuity, I’ve used similar strategies when managing my own projects.” Battenberg currently supports a variety of fabrication-focused engineering projects, which require her to travel to exotic locates like Japan, Iceland and the United Arab Emirates. Many of the programs have grown after customers responded positively to the impressive engineering support provided by Battenberg and her team. When asked about the key to her success, Battenberg says the answer is simple. “I have great co-workers,” she said, laughing. “I also believe that it is important to be honest, have humility, and be open to feedback.” In her spare time, Jenny enjoys exploring her creative side through interior design and crafting. She also enjoys baking and cooking – skills passed down through the strong and impactful women in her family. Outstanding Electrical Engineers like Jason Metzger play an integral role in supporting C5ISR readiness for America’s warfighters, according to Chip Tracewski. “Jason has been critical to the success of the satellite communications programs he supports,” he said. “His calm demeanor and attitude toward supporting his customers are a valuable asset to Tobyhanna Army Depot.” Tracewski leads the Production Engineering Directorate’s C4 & Logistics Engineering Division. Electrical Engineer Jason Metzger A graduate of Penn State, Metzger started his depot career in 2004 as an electronics worker on the production floor and spent four years repairing avionics equipment. Although he was not working in his degreed field, Metzger says the experience was beneficial nonetheless. “There is often a disconnect between production shops and their support teams. Working on both sides has helped me better understand the needs of my customers,” adding that he tries to use this experiential knowledge to educate the general depot population. “One thing I wish everyone knew was that even though their requests seem easy to complete, engineering-related tasks are often more time-consuming and complex than you would think. Helping Team Tobyhanna understand why we do what we do is key.” Metzger’s cross-functional experience also includes time working in the Strategic Initiatives Office, learning about the depot activation and business development processes. In addition, he participated in a nanofabrication educational program at Penn State. Metzger’s co-workers say he is a true asset to Team Tobyhanna. “I’ve had the good fortune of working alongside Jason for many years. He is an extremely conscientious and professional engineer who possesses exceptional technical skills that allow him to quickly solve problems and effectively bridge the gap between the theoretical and practical sides of engineering,” said Thomas Ondrey, an electronics engineer in the Production Engineering Directorate. While Metzger appreciates the accolades, he noted that none of his success was accomplished alone. “I owe it all to the amazing team I work with every day.” In his free time, Jason enjoys spending time with family, his two dogs, and being outdoors. The technical expertise of Team Tobyhanna’s engineers is integral to its mission and long-range strategic plan, TOBY2028, which has four focus areas: Investing in Our People, C5ISR Readiness, Shape the Future and Strategic Communications. TOBY2028 aims to posture the depot for success in the coming years as the Department of Defense’s premier worldwide C5ISR readiness provider.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Warfighter of the Quarter Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) honored one of its own Saturday night for outstanding service as an Army Soldier. Sergeant First Class (SFC) Frank E Boehme, Jr. of the 109th Infantry Regiment out of Easton, PA – and a member of the TYAD workforce – was recognized as the first Warfighter of the Quarter of 2022 during a ceremony at the Wilkes-Barre/Penguins Military Appreciation Night event. The award, which celebrates the bond between TYAD’s employees and the warfighters they support, has been presented to over 35 deserving military members from across Northeastern Pennsylvania. Boehme’s commanding officer, Lt. Ryan Joyce, nominated him for the honor, noting the Sergeant’s extraordinary commitment to his fellow Soldiers. “SFC Boehme is by far the most skilled and professional Platoon Sergeant that I’ve worked with. He lives by Soldier first and mission always.” Kelvin Spencer agreed. “SFC Boehme serves as a premier role model for Soldiers and Noncommissioned Officers across the Army. He consistently sets the example for all to follow and demonstrates commitment to the Army Values, to the Warrior’s Ethos and he superbly represents our country’s military force of the future,” he said. Spencer is the chief of Tobyhanna’s Electronics Fabrication Division and leads the Tobyhanna chapter of the Association of the United States Army. He also served as depot Sergeant Major from 2009 to 2012. Open and honest communication is a priority for Boehme, who cites General Colin Powell as one of his leadership influences. “General Powell famously said that the day Soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you stopped leading them. I work hard to ensure my team knows that I care and will do anything I can to assist them.” Boehme also noted that his career achievements would not have been possible without the love and support of his family. “Whenever it was time to pack up my duffle bags and leave, I knew that things back home were going to be okay – whether it was for a weekend, a few months or for a yearlong deployment. My parents and my family always step up and cover down during my absence so I can stay focused on my Soldiers and my mission.” Coworkers and depot leadership similarly laud Boehme’s performance. “Frank continuously provides exceptional service, whether it is as Soldier or civilian,” said Jason DeMatteo, chief of the Law Enforcement Branch. Boehme says his years in uniform have given him a unique appreciation for the role Department of Defense civilians play in national security. “I feel tremendous gratitude to the entire Tobyhanna team for their efforts to make life easier for warfighters on the battlefield.” Boehme enlisted in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in January 2004 and deployed twice to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. A highly decorated Soldier, he has been honored with the Army Commendation Medal w/ Oak Leaf Cluster (OLC), an Army Achievement Medal with two OLCs, the Armed Forces Reserve Components Achievement Medal with four OLCs, and the Combat Infantryman Badge – among other impressive accolades. He is a member of the Order of the Combat Spur (Gold) and is the recipient of the Order of Saint Maurice Medallion. The Warfighter of the Quarter award is a TOBY2028 Connecting with the Community initiative. The long-range strategic plan aligns with the depot’s four strategic focus areas: Investing in Our People, C5ISR Readiness, Shape the Future and Strategic Communications; and aims to posture the organization for future success.
Department of Defense Military Packaging Design Training Now Available at Tobyhanna Army Depot PSCC’s Wade Myrthel assists a PACK 2 student during capstone testing. The Army’s premier training for military packaging has a new home. The Army Sustainment Command Packaging, Storage, and Containerization Center (PSCC), located on-post at Tobyhanna Army Depot, has fully implemented a new version of the critical PACK 2 Military Packaging Design Course. The course educates Department of Defense (DoD) personnel on techniques to properly design packaging that protects high dollar mission critical items from the rigors of military storage and the defense distribution system’s complex network of air, sea, and land transport – a challenge that requires simultaneously controlling costs, conserving resources, and minimizing unit pack size and weight. Thanks to the efforts of PSCC personnel, the DoD now has a comprehensive design course to address all of these concerns and provide DoD packaging designers with the skills they need to successfully support mission requirements. Since 2008, the closure of the School of Military Packaging Technology (SMPT) and the effects of attrition have resulted in a significant gap in the DoD packaging subject matter expertise. In response to this need, PSCC developed a redesigned PACK 2 that leverages the packaging expertise of in-house personnel and the resources available in PSCC’s Packaging Applications Testing Facility. The eight-day course consists of classroom lectures, as well as hands-on instruction in PSCC’s world-class packaging testing facility, which includes water intrusion, random vibration, and simulated handling testing apparatuses. A variety of packaging-related topics are covered in the training, to include design requirements, design methodology, shock and vibration, fragility, suspension systems, cushioning properties, cushioning design procedures, special packaging instructions, and validation testing. The culmination of the course is a capstone, requiring students to build and test a package that can meet military packaging standards – and withstand durability testing. Beginning in the first lesson, the capstone is integrated. By immediately following up each lesson with a relevant exercise, students get to reinforce what they have just learned and obtain a clearer picture of how it applies to real world design. According to David Gomes, re-launching the course was an arduous effort. “Our team spent the past year developing the PACK 2 course and ensuring it met the rigorous standards of the Defense Packaging Policy Group (DPPG),” adding that PSCC was chosen for the mission due to the subject matter expertise of its employees, as well as their modern testing facilities. Gomes is a senior packaging specialist in PSCC. A pilot of the course was held in late FY21 and included representatives from the DPPG, the Defense Contract Management Agency; the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armament Center; the U.S. Marine Corps; and the U.S. Navy. Gomes noted that the course benefitted attendees as well as PSCC personnel. “Having personnel from various DoD Components in one room allowed for dynamic cross-collaboration and discussion.” The pilot – and PSCC’s instructors – earned rave reviews from attendees as well as DPPG representatives, who gave the green light to fully offer the course to the DoD community. General Engineer Brian Rawhouser says the entire DoD – especially Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) – will benefit from having the PACK 2 training on-post. “The packaging fundamentals taught in this course ensure military assets are protected from environmental impacts, transportation and handling, and remain in a ready-for-issue status throughout the supply chain. That has a direct impact on TYAD’s mission; for example, proper packaging can reduce warranty claims, increase safety, and, most importantly, ensure materiel readiness.” The PACK 2 course is scheduled to run again in late January, April and July 2022. Those interested in learning more about the course or about PSCC’s unmatched facilities and team, please call 570-615-7257 or visit PSCC’s website at https://www.pscc.army.mil/. Tobyhanna Army Depot is a recognized leader in providing world-class logistics support for C5ISR systems across the Department of Defense. Tobyhanna’s Corporate Philosophy, dedicated work force and electronics expertise ensure the depot is the Joint C5ISR provider of choice for all branches of the Armed Forces and industry partners. Tobyhanna’s unparalleled capabilities include full-spectrum logistics support for sustainment, overhaul and repair, fabrication and manufacturing, engineering design and development, systems integration, post production software support, technology insertion, modification, foreign military sales and global field support to our joint warfighters. About 3,700 personnel are employed at Tobyhanna, which is located in the Pocono Mountains of northeastern Pennsylvania. Tobyhanna Army Depot is part of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command. Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the command’s mission is to empower the Soldier with winning C5ISR capabilities. *please note: These photos were taken at various times during the year, during which the Department of Defense guidance on masking/COVID-19 precautions changed in step with the guidance from the Center for Disease Control.
Safety Program at Tobyhanna Army Depot Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Safety and Occupational Health Office (SOHO) is earning rave reviews for its efforts to ensure a healthy workplace for more than 3,700 team members. The SOHO team successfully led Team Tobyhanna through a sweeping, four-day audit by external Department of Defense (DoD) officials earlier this fall. Representatives from the Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) Directorate of Safety were on site to evaluate the effectiveness of Tobyhanna’s safety and occupational health program. CECOM personnel noted multiple depot best practices during the visit. One such best practice was Tobyhanna’s extensive COVID-19 mitigation strategies, especially the COVID-19 Task Force, praised by auditors for its comprehensive methods to keep employees safe during the unprecedented pandemic. The cross-functional group, which meets regularly, is charged with ensuring depot policies are focused on employee safety and in accordance with applicable DoD, federal, state and local public health guidance. Among the Task Force’s accomplishments is the procurement of more than 7,000 face coverings to distribute to personnel and visitors; the installation of ionization systems and self-check temperature stations; and the deep cleaning of nearly 1M square feet of depot property. The Task Force also spearheaded a detailed contact tracing process on-post to prevent the virus’ spread. Auditors also lauded the depot’s lifting devices inspection program. The SOHO has three full-time equipment inspectors who maintain the program. The trio examine depot equipment such as overhead cranes and pallet jacks for operability and safety to Army and Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. “Our mission covers a variety of equipment. Basically, if it lifts or holds weight, we inspect it and make sure it is safe for our depot teammates,” said Michael Lazowski. Lazowski and his co-workers, Darren Stout and David Huntz, conduct an average of 600 inspections per month for Tobyhanna equipment as well as assets belonging to tenant activities. They also perform physical load tests, inspection of fall protection harnesses and provide support for unforeseen requirements, such as re-inspections of new and repaired equipment. Stout says depot personnel can help make the program run even more smoothly. “We have a great working relationship with our customers; however, there are two things they can do to make our process even easier for all involved. First, they can proactively schedule their inspections, which helps us with our demanding schedule; and second, they can self-report in advance when they need a reinspection. Both of these actions are small, but important, ways to help us serve our customers better.” Lazowski says there is never a dull moment in the life of an equipment inspector. “This position allows us to experience the many different parts of Tobyhanna’s mission and facilities – and we know what we do matters, which makes it even better.” Several opportunities for improvement were also identified by CECOM, according to Bilotta. “During the audit, it was noted that our existing Safety Hazard and Near Miss Reporting process was effective, but could be further improved. In the coming months, our team will be working to streamline this process.” Reflecting upon another successful audit, Bilotta noted SOHO could not do it alone. “The workforce does a great job making safety a priority and we attribute our successes to their effort and enthusiasm.” Tobyhanna’s safety program adheres to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 45001 safety standard, recognized across the world as benchmark for workplace safety. Tobyhanna was the first organization within the Department of Defense to obtain the ISO 45001 accreditation in 2019. Employee safety is a fundamental part of Tobyhanna’s long-range strategic plan, TOBY2028. The plan aligns with the depot’s four strategic focus areas: Investing in Our People, C5ISR Readiness, Shape the Future and Strategic Communications; and aims to posture the organization for future success. External auditors will return to Tobyhanna in January and February for further reviews.
