Rear Adm. Craig T. Mattingly was relieved by Rear Adm. Matthew T. Pottenburgh as commander of Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) during a combined Recruit Training Command (RTC) Graduation and change of command ceremony held April 03,2025 at Naval Station Great Lakes.
During Rear Adm. Mattingly’s time at NSTC, the command made major improvements in how the Navy trains and prepares new Sailors and officers. Under his leadership, the Future Sailor Preparatory Course enabled more than 2,700 recruits to qualify for Basic Military Training. Another initiative focused on warfighter development was the shift of boot camp to 9 weeks. Mattingly also directed the transition to Thursday boot camp graduations. These creative changes allowed the newest Sailors more quality time with their family before continuing the next phase of training.
NSTC also increased officer training capacity, growing Officer Candidate School class sizes by 30% and revitalizing ship selection events for future Surface Warfare Officers. The Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) program also saw significant growth in scholarships and commissionings.
Mattingly advanced multiple initiatives focused on training and lethality. He oversaw new efforts to reduce attrition, expand Warrior Toughness, and improve communication with families.
His leadership ensured that the Navy’s newest Sailors and officers were better prepared for the challenges ahead
“As I step away from this incredible command, I am immensely proud of the work we have accomplished in training the next generation of Sailors and officers,” said Mattingly. “The dedication and professionalism of this team ensures we continue to build a stronger Naval warfighting force through an unwavering commitment to warfighter development, and I have no doubt that Rear Adm. Pottenburgh will continue to advance this vital mission.”
Pottenburgh was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) program at Ohio State and most recently served as executive assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations at the Pentagon, assumes command of NSTC with a wealth of operational and leadership experience.
“NSTC plays a critical role in shaping the future of our Navy by preparing young men and women to serve by the principles of the Warrior Ethos,” said Pottenburgh. “As someone who began my own Navy journey through the NROTC program at The Ohio State University, I’m honored to return in this role and ensure we continue to develop warfighters ready to meet the demands of the Fleet.”
NSTC supports naval accessions training for 98 percent of the Navy’s new officers and enlisted Sailors. This training includes the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) at more than 160 colleges and universities across the country, Officer Training Command (OTC) in Newport, Rhode Island, Recruit Training Command (RTC), the Navy’s only boot camp, as well as the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) and Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) citizenship development program at more than 600 high schools worldwide.
For more information about Naval Service Training Command, visit
https://www.netc.navy.mil/NSTC/.