Marine Corps Logistics Command Albany, GA -- Marine Corps Logistics Command recently hosted Marines, Civilian Marines and contractors for a Distribution Process Advocates workshop at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia. Distribution Process Advocates provide MARCORLOGCOM with a subject matter expert in distribution planning, in-transit visibility, and supply chain analysis in support of the Fleet Marine Forces.
The DPA workshop is an annual forum during which MARCORLOGCOM provides leveling briefings on command initiatives and guidance along with tours and demonstrations at Marine Depot Maintenance Command and Marine Force Storage Command.
Michael V. McCloud, distribution management branch head, Enterprise Distribution Division, facilitated the workshop for MARCORLOGCOM. “Eight DPAs, along with Distribution Management Support Service Marines, Civilian-Marines and contractors participated in the three-day workshop,” said McCloud.
EDD conducts the DPA workshop in order to provide a venue to receive updates and solicit feedback from the DPAs, discuss best practices, and educate MARCORLOGCOM staff on how best to leverage DPA capability to accomplish MARCORLOGCOM’s role as the Corps’ distribution process manager.
McCloud stated that one of the goals of the workshop is to improve support to the Fleet Marine Force. That goal is accomplished through sharing of information and discussion regarding changes to distribution products and services that are provided to the FMF, he added.
“When the DPAs improve their logistics processes and capabilities, our processes are improved as well,” said McCloud. “Ultimately, by working together, we greatly improve enterprise distribution for the Corps and outcomes for the FMF.”
Several DPA commented on the tour they took to MDMC, calling the micro-manufacturing demonstration a high point to the event.
Nikisha A. Bratton-Bibbs, distribution process advocate, MARCENT Coordination Element-Kuwait, said that the entire event provided a great deal of insight.
“I was able to add a few items to my toolbox this time, and with what I have gained, I will be able to better support MCE-K,” Bratton-Bibbs said.
Maurice A. Williams, distribution process advocate, III Marine Expeditionary Force, attended the workshop. “This workshop was the second conducted by EDD, and improvements over previous workshops were recognizable,” said Williams.
Williams noted that this program was more robust than the previous year. “The updated curriculum allowed for the greater sharing of best practices and lessons learned from other DPA in attendance,” Williams added.
At the conclusion of the workshop, Maj. Jameel Ali, director, Enterprise Distribution Division, deemed the event a success. “Our first priority is to ensure our actions conform to the needs of the Fleet Marines, this workshop increases communication with MEF-level logisticians and advances our ability to predict and respond to their needs.”