An analysis of United States Marine Corps Enlisted Entry-Level Training using supply chain and operations management

Abstract

The Enlisted Entry-Level Training (EELT) pipeline is a complex network that is of vital importance to the U.S. Marine Corps' ability to maintain a balanced force and serve as the nation's force in readiness. This report provides an all-inclusive description of the EELT pipeline by identifying the fundamental steps in the supply chain, analyzing the supply chain's critical characteristics, and providing informed recommendations related to operations and supply chain management in an effort to help synchronize the flow of human inventory through the EELT network. The report recommends six initiatives that have the potential to reduce queuing, minimize P2T2, and decrease total costs. The first proposed recommendation is to level load trainees to the training pipeline throughout the year; second, develop a pull inventory system by eliminating PEF code assignments and postponing trainee classification; third, decrease capacity at the recruit depots and increase capacity at Marine Combat Training schools; fourth, maximize training capacity during the ONDJ trimester by employing all available resources and reducing lost time during the year-end holiday break; fifth, enhance the Marine Corps Training Information Management System through incentives, automation, and interoperability; and sixth, develop an EELT Supply Chain Process Owner focused on integrating processes across the supply chain.