FORT KNOX Ky., – Blue light filters across the faces of Cadets from 2nd Regiment, Advanced Camp, as they test out their new found knowledge of the M4 Carbines during the Engagement Skills Trainer, a virtual range set across two screens filling the entire wall of the room.

During EST, Cadets will further learn the basics of handling and caring for their weapons along with what they might expect on a live range during M4 qualifications.

Cadet Ava LePage, Norwich University, a prior enlisted combat engineer, appreciates the ability to practice skills she may have forgotten and refamiliarize herself with being on a range.

“Anytime we have the opportunity to go through each (firing) position and actually get to feel the weapon fire is just great practice,” said LePage.

Cadet Kyle Abosch, University of Maryland, entered the training with full confidence in both himself and his weapon, having a little more experience on a virtual range than his peers.

“Thankfully, for my school, we have access (to the EST) at a nearby military base. I have been able to practice before (coming here), so I’m very comfortable with my weapon,” Abosch said.

While Abosch wasn’t completely satisfied with his scores that day, it made him even more determined to improve, “I want to keep getting better and better. I always want to be at my best.”

For some, the event gives them back their confidence by reinforcing trust in their own skills and providing an opportunity for improvement and guidance from their peers and the Cadre.

Cadet Alisha Audate, Georgia Military College, values the experience that EST provides her. It gives her an idea of what to expect before she hits the M4 qualification range and lets her practice with the firing positions taught during Preliminary Marksmanship Instruction.

“I came into this a little unsure of myself because it has been a while since I’ve been on a range,” said Audate. “We had a lot of great Cadre who took their time to explain, and it made my shot group better.”

In LePage’s thoughts, everyone is nervous about qualifications, but keeping a clear head and listening to what is being taught goes a long way in making sure there are no mistakes, “There’s a lot of time to practice, so when we go out there, you know exactly what to do.”