Open Data Sources in Support of Engineer Reconnaissance
Published 1/15/25
By Staff Sergeant Richard B. King
This article explores various repositories of unclassified open-source geospatial data that can be leveraged in support of engineer reconnaissance efforts—either with or without the assistance of geospatial engineer teams.
Black Box feature
Published 1/28/2026
By Colonel Jodie L. Kunkel
This article examines the U.S. Army's evolving approach to blast overpressure (BOP) exposure, highlighting new safety thresholds, cognitive monitoring requirements, and leadership responsibilities for protecting personnel from both acute and cumulative neurological damage. Following a 2022 urgent safety message and updated 2024 Department of War guidance, the military has implemented stricter exposure limits and baseline cognitive testing to address mounting evidence that repeated blast exposure—even below injury thresholds—can cause long-term brain health issues.
Maintenance
Published 1/16/2026
By Staff Sergeant Brandi Schneider
This article examines critical maintenance challenges in large-scale combat operations, arguing that success depends on transforming how the 91-series MOS trains maintainers through standardized certifications, military-led new equipment training, and rigorous preventative maintenance accountability. Staff Sergeant Schneider advocates for leveraging technologies like the Data Integration for Ground Systems and Digital Logbook to bridge the operator-maintainer divide, while emphasizing that operator ownership of equipment and comprehensive training are essential to sustaining combat readiness where logistics systems become high-value targets.
3D Printing
Published 1/9/2026
By Chief Warrant Officer Three Darius J. Cooper
In this article, Chief Warrant Officer Three Darius J. Cooper argues that additive manufacturing (3D printing) represents a transformative capability for the U.S. Army Engineer Regiment in multidomain operations against near-peer adversaries. He contends that 3D printing technology can provide engineer units with a decisive tactical advantage by enabling rapid production of obstacles, structures, and maintenance parts directly on the battlefield, thereby reducing logistical dependencies. However, Cooper acknowledges that realizing this potential requires the Army to address critical challenges including cybersecurity vulnerabilities, material limitations, and the complexities of protecting high-value printing equipment in contested environments.
Cold Region Engineer
Published 12/31/2025
By Chief Warrant Officer Three Kevin J. Fischer
This article highlights the critical need for the Engineer Regiment to prepare for operations in extreme cold environments, emphasizing that both soldiers and equipment face unique and severe challenges in such conditions. Drawing on historical and modern examples, it argues that cold-region expertise and training are essential for maintaining combat effectiveness and gaining a strategic advantage. The article calls for updated doctrine and focused training to ensure engineer units are ready to operate where both the enemy and the environment pose lethal threats.
Engineer Coordinator
Published 12/31/2025
By Lieutenant Colonel Aaron Anderson
This article explores the origins and usage of the term "Engineer Coordinator" (ENCOORD), highlighting its popularity among some military units despite its lack of doctrinal foundation. It discusses the ambiguity and confusion the term can create, emphasizing that established titles for engineer commanders and staff provide clearer guidance. Ultimately, the article argues against the need to revive the ENCOORD role, advocating for adherence to existing doctrinal terminology.