Hey there! As an Army Specialist, you probably have a lot of questions about this DLC 1 training you need to complete. Well, as a tech geek and data analyst who loves gaming and streaming, I‘ve done a deep dive on DLC 1 to give you all the insider info you need. Let‘s get started!
What is DLC 1?
DLC stands for Distributed Leader Course. DLC 1 is the first level of online courses that you need to complete as part of the Army‘s structured self-development program for turning junior enlisted soldiers into Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs).
The goal of DLC 1 is to develop critical leadership skills including:
- Communicating your ideas effectively
- Demonstrating strong character and Army values
- Building your tactical and technical abilities
- Taking initiative to become a lifelong learner
DLC 1 consists of about 44 hours of online instruction. You get 720 days to complete it after you are enrolled.
Where Can You Find DLC 1?
All the DLC courses are located on the Army‘s ALMS platform – the Army Learning Management System. This is the centralized hub for online training.
You can‘t actually enroll yourself in DLC 1 – you are auto-enrolled when you are promoted to Specialist! Once you put on that E-4, DLC 1 will show up under your "Active" training tabs in ALMS within about 72 hours. If you don‘t see it after 3 days, call the ALMS Helpdesk to get it sorted.
DLC 1 and Structured Self-Development
DLC 1 is part of the Army‘s Select phase of leadership development, specifically focused on getting new Specialists prepared to become NCOs. It aligns with the STEP concept for progression:
Select: Get enrolled in DLC 1 automatically
Train: Complete your DLC 1 coursework
Educate: Attend the Basic Leader Course
Promote: Move up to Sergeant
Courses like DLC 1 are essential for NCO development. Each level builds the leadership skills and knowledge you need in a structured way that supports what you learn in the classroom.
Why Completing DLC 1 Matters
Finishing DLC 1 is required for you to be eligible for promotion to Sergeant and attend the Basic Leader Course. If you don‘t complete it within 720 days, you could face administrative action like a bar from continued service.
So it‘s critical that you take initiative and get DLC 1 done on time! Here are some tips:
- Create a schedule and set aside time each week
- Stick to your schedule! Consistency is key
- Use first line supervisors if you need help or guidance
- Chip away at it steadily instead of cramming at the end
In 2019, over 500,000 soldiers were enrolled in DLC courses Army-wide. But only 55% actually completed their DLC on time. Don‘t be part of the 45%! Stay on top of it and join the ranks of those who finish.
The DLC 1 Course Curriculum
Now that you know why DLC 1 matters, let‘s talk about what you will be learning!
The curriculum is designed to build specific leadership capabilities including:
Communication Skills: DLC 1 has practical modules on writing, speaking, presenting in front of groups, and using digital media to help you convey your ideas clearly. Strong communication is vital for leading teams.
Army Values: You‘ll gain greater understanding of the seven Army values and how to exemplify them. There are interactive ethical scenarios that build moral courage.
Technical Competence: Through field trip videos, combat simulator exercises, and demonstrations, you‘ll expand your tactical and technical know-how to become a more capable soldier.
Lifelong Learning: DLC 1 teaches you skills for continuous self-improvement like goal-setting, time management, and reflective thinking. These enable you to take charge of your own development.
See how all that ties directly into the leadership abilities you need to lead your team and grow as an NCO? DLC 1 gives you that foundation.
Common Challenges and How to Beat Them
I know you‘ve got a full plate with training exercises, duties, and other demands on your time. About 45% of soldiers struggle to complete their DLC 1 requirements before the 720 day window shuts.
Here are some of the common obstacles and my tips for overcoming them:
Challenge: Too busy with duty responsibilities
Tip: Wake up 30 minutes early each morning to work on DLC 1
Challenge: Difficulty staying motivated
Tip: Find an accountability buddy who can check on your progress
Challenge: Lots of distractions in the barracks
Tip: Study from the library or other quiet spot away from interruptions
Challenge: Materials feel disconnected from real-world
Tip: Discuss concepts with supervisors to see application
Challenge: Technical issues accessing materials
Tip: Contact ALMS Helpdesk promptly for troubleshooting
With consistent effort, you can beat these obstacles. And remember your direct supervisors are there to provide guidance too!
Final Words of Advice
Wrapping up, here are my key pieces of advice for new Army Specialists:
- Tackle DLC 1 right away – don‘t let it linger until the deadline nears
- Make steady progress by scheduling time consistently each week
- Apply the concepts in your daily duties; they‘re highly relevant
- Ask questions when you need help to get over hurdles
- Stay enrolled in ALMS and complete all requirements on time
Keep grinding away at DLC 1 and it will pay off with new skills for your leadership journey ahead. You‘ve got this!
Let me know if you have any other questions. Happy to help a fellow gamer and Army soldier out.
