EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, AK -- The cold settles deep, lingering until the crackle of a newly built fire begins to repel it. As heat extends, it becomes clear that while winter in many places may be familiar, the cold of Alaska’s interior is not something many have encountered.
Below-freezing temperatures and long stretches of darkness define life in this region, making Eielson’s Arctic Resiliency Training essential for Airmen living in this climate.
“The ART course is designed to prepare joint warfighters with foundational Arctic capabilities, both on and off duty,” said 1st Lt. Colten Riley, 354th Comptroller Squadron program manager and ART instructor. “It focuses on building resilience and providing local familiarization to help Airmen excel and thrive in an austere Arctic environment.”
The course begins with an overview of the unique challenges the region presents, such as extreme temperatures, unpredictable weather and limited daylight. Airmen see firsthand how these factors can disrupt even routine tasks. Numb fingers making handling equipment difficult, freezing vehicles and machinery that can require extra maintenance and the long, dark days challenge focus and morale.
“This two-day course teaches a lot about how to face these challenges if you ever find yourself in a bad situation,” said Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Perry, 354th Maintenance Group senior enlisted leader. “If we want to go out to see things or just cruise around and suddenly the truck breaks down, we're stuck waiting for some help. I'm going to use some of the information I learned from the course, like building a temporary shelter or a signaling device where, if somebody is in the area they can help us.”
Basic cold-environment safety and preparation skills are among the first lessons taught, helping Airmen prevent injuries and maintain performance in harsh conditions. Without that knowledge, exposure-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia become a real risk. These same safety practices carry over into daily life, from commuting in sub-zero temperatures to enjoying outdoor activities with family.
“The goal is for each participant to learn practical skills like proper clothing layering for warmth and winter driving techniques, " said Riley. “These skills will improve their day-to-day job performance and most importantly, their safety living in the Arctic environment.”