Sergeant Colin Staples – Fort Gregg Adams, VA
Transitioning from the Fleet Marine Force (FMF) to becoming an instructor at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia was both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. Even before requesting a Permanent Change of Station to the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 2111 schoolhouse, I felt uncertain about what to expect beyond my primary role as an instructor. However, the transition was made seamless thanks to the support of experienced peers and the structured training courses designed to develop new instructors.
One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had since arriving here was one of the required platform instructor courses called Facilitate Learning and Experience (FLEX). This course provided a wide array of essential tools and techniques to the learner the ability to tailor their platform instruction to different learning styles. Whether teaching a specific weapon system or leading a broader course, FLEX helped refine my ability to engage and guide students effectively. FLEX assisted in reminding me to put myself in the students shoes and to intertwine engaging MOS driven content with real world experiences to aid each students individual learning styles.
Beyond classroom instruction, serving as a Faculty Advisor (FA) for the up-and-coming 2100 students added another layer of responsibility. This role involves mentoring and leading junior Marines—anywhere from eight to twenty at a time. We’re not only mentoring the students through their MOS school, we’re preparing them for the FMF through physical training, uniform inspections, and daily guidance. While challenging, this opportunity to shape the next generation of Marines and watch them grow into future leaders has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. Marines come from all walks of life, and to see Marines I have personally shaped and molded into a well-rounded Small Arms Repairer, who are now more than capable of overcoming and achieving any task given to them is what drives me to become a better instructor and mentor.
Another key advantage of being an instructor is the collaboration with staff. The diverse range of experience within the schoolhouse provides invaluable opportunities for professional growth. Whether expanding technical knowledge on weapon systems, gaining insights into armory operations, or learning the administrative side of the MOS, the collective expertise of fellow instructors strengthens both individual development and the schoolhouse.
Becoming a Formal Schoolhouse Instructor has been a defining chapter in my career. My experience has enhanced my leadership skills as an FA, deepened my knowledge of the MOS, and allowed me to contribute directly to curriculum development—ultimately shaping the future of Marines heading to the FMF. The experience has been both challenging and rewarding, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the institution that once trained me.