Picatinny Arsenal engineers seeking to learn more about armaments and small arms weapon systems recently received some good news: In-person classes have returned to the Armament University for the first time since March 2020.
The hands-on programs teach and guide each participant through all armorer operations step-by-step with an instructor, according to Matthew Gatzke, Training Coordinator for the Armament University.
“These are the first weapons courses since the pandemic,” Gatzke said. “We started back up in December (2021).”
During the courses, participants become familiar with the disassembly, reassembly, maintenance, troubleshooting and function of several essential non-standard weapons platforms. Throughout the courses, participants also become familiar with the operation and production of each of the weapon systems.
Some recent course titles include “Armorer Sig Sauer MCX Rifle” and “Armorer Sig Sauer Handgun” training.
Picatinny’s largest tenant, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center, operates the Armament University, which offers a wide variety of courses appropriate for entry level, journeyman and advanced audiences.
The Armament University specializes in enhancing the professional development of engineers and scientists through in-house technical classes and special on-the-job training.
“Receiving the armorer-level certification for the weapon platform greatly enhances my knowledge and understanding of the weapon platform, and assists my efforts on both the research and development side, as well as with customer support,” said Russell Adams, an engineer with Small Arms Fire Control & Optics Technology division, part of Armaments Center.
Adams is currently matrixed to Project Manager Soldier Lethality, which fields and supports the Sig Sauer Modular Handgun System.
“Taking this class did not just assist with this particular weapon system, but with armament systems in general – and I highly encourage everyone I can to take courses like this, even if they are not fielded systems, to share in that understanding as the payoff is continuous,” Adams said.
Future weapons training classes will be announced Picatinny-wide for registration. Some of the future weapons training classes include basic weapons, shotgun, AR-15, and foreign weapons.
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