NEEDED: TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION FOR LEADERSHIP TRAINING

The Growing Need for Improved Leadership Training

Based on over 70 interviews with officials from FEMA, law enforcement, fire and rescue, and corporate security, a clear consensus has emerged: current training methods are inadequate for preparing leaders to make immediate decisions during multi-agency crisis responses. There is an increasing demand for a new training approach at various leadership levels.

The Rising Threat of Violence

Alarming Statistics

• Active shooter incidents are increasing, with 20% occurring in schools and 40% in workplaces.

• Violent incidents in schools increased by 113% in 2018.

• 2019 saw more injuries, increased use of body armor by shooters, and more officer casualties compared to 2018.

• An alarming shift: more shooters are surrendering, indicating changes in motivations and tactics.

  
  

The "Adaptation Flatline"

Despite these trends, there has been little measurable change in leadership training methodologies to address the evolving threat landscape.

Current Training Methods: Ineffective and Outdated

Problems with Traditional Approaches

1. Boring seminars with low learning curves

2. Infrequent, high-end training exercises with steep learning curves

3. Leaders often supervise rather than participate in training

4. Disconnect between individual, team, and leadership skills

5. Lack of focus on multi-agency responses

6. Non-engaging training modules

7. High costs of major training events

   
   

Training Management Issues

1. Disconnect between individual/team skills and leadership skills

2. Focus on internal department requirements rather than holistic approaches

3. Lack of engaging, adaptive training modules

4. High costs and missed learning opportunities in major training events

The Need for Innovative Solutions

Current Vendor Offerings

1. Focus on individual and team skills (e.g., operator/driver training, tactics)

2. Leader-focused solutions still rely on seminars or expensive culmination events

3. Some solutions use Virtual Reality but require significant resources

4. Web-based platforms offer boring webinars with low knowledge retention

The Ideal Solution

An engaging simulation that:

1. Automates map-oriented, turn-based wargame mechanics

2. Provides statistical relevance for participants

3. Reinforces doctrinal basics while allowing for adaptations

4. Integrates with a learning management system

5. Augments standard certifications and hones leadership skills

6. Prepares leaders for major training exercises and real-world incidents

Conclusion

To address the growing threat of violence and the inadequacies of current training methods, a new approach to leadership training is essential. By leveraging innovative technology and simulation, we can create a more effective, engaging, and cost-efficient way to prepare our leaders for the complex challenges they face in crisis situations.