Operator Training: When the Subtask Is the Whole Task

Throwing operators into full simulator scenarios sounds thorough, but it can mask the one critical subtask they actually need to master. Human factors engineer Dave Strobhar argues that effective operator training starts by identifying which subtasks carry the highest consequences — loss of containment, asset destruction, major downtime — and drilling those specifically before integrating them into broader scenarios. Using real examples of failed steam-system isolations and a misallocated $500,000 simulator budget, Strobhar makes the case for focused, measurable training objectives over checkbox exercises. The goal isn't to simulate everything. It's to ensure operators get the one decision right when it counts.