Retired Brig. Gen. Walt Mercer, the Virginia Department of Military Affairs Chief Operations Officer, speaks to managers of DMA personnel during the DMA Supervisors Course Jan. 24, 2023, at Fort Pickett, Virginia. During the three-day course, uniformed and civilian supervisors of DMA state employees learn the ins and outs of managing and leading state employees. During the course, instructors from across DMA lead lessons focused on administrative policies and procedures, problem solving, communication and leadership.