CG COOL, or Credentialing Opportunities On-Line, is a program that provides Coast Guard members with information and resources to help them pursue civilian certifications and licenses relevant to their military occupation. By obtaining civilian certifications and licenses, members can enhance their professional qualifications and improve their career prospects both within and outside the military.
Credentialing Assistance (CA) reimburses eligible service members for authorized fees in the pursuit of credentials. The program does not have a limit on the number of credentials, but the cap for the program is $4,500 per year per service member.
Training Course (Online)
Developed by an Olympic Coach, the material in this training can be immediately used, scaled and seamlessly integrated into any training routine or as a stand alone running training. The course includes theory and practice, and provides full sets of technique drills, exercises and follow-along routines. It also offers guidance for running in combat boots and rucking.
Easily customizable, it works well for personal, 1-on-1 and group training.
Recommended for: Enlisted, Enlisted Leaders, Senior Leaders
Questions? Contact us for assistance
Certification Exam (Online)
The Certified Running Technique Specialist (Pose Method) credential is for any individual who needs be able to provide an effective instruction on running skill, analyze and correct technique deficiency and provide feedback. In the military, this credential is most useful to those in positions of leadership. In line with injury prevention, readiness and human performance optimization initiatives, this certification enables the recipients with a critical skill to support and promote injury prevention and physical readiness. Industry-recognized credentials are often the key to a successful transition to civilian employment.
Recommended for: Enlisted Leaders, Senior Leaders
Questions? Contact us for assistance
Our online quote form allows to select individual quotes for the Training Course or the Certification Exam, or both. Fill out one form and make your selection.
The Credentialing Assistance (CA) program will pay for
Study materials and training courses are covered by Coast Guard Credentialing Assistance program. Below is a short list of trainings and courses available.
There are two comprehensive options to prepare for the certification exam:
The online master course is also approved for 20 Continuing Education hours for Physical Therapists and Athletic Trainers.
Coast Guard Mutual Assistance is offering support for CG COOL, specifically for members seeking credentials.
To help alleviate the upfront costs associated with pursuing credentials, CGMA is offering loans of up to $4,500.00. These loans can be used to cover expenses such as training courses, books, study guides, exam preparation materials, exam fees, maintenance fees, renewal fees, and membership dues which lead to a credential. Loans will not be provided to cover travel or lodging costs related to training courses or exams.
Eligibility: Active-duty service members, civilian employees, and members of the Selected Reserves (SELRES) of the Coast Guard are eligible to apply.
Required Documentation for Assistance:
Please use program code “COOLLoan” in NetForum.
Questions about this program should be sent to Mrs. Jing Patton, Operations Support Manager, at Jing.Patton@cgmahg.org
Is there a service obligation?
No. However, active duty and SELRES personnel must have at least 6 months remaining in service from the exam or training date.
If you are within 6 months of your EOE or contract and you plan on reenlisting, contact your ESO for assistance.
Is This Exam Approved for Credentialing Assistance?
Yes, this credential – Certified Running Technique Specialist (Pose Method) and the related training course are approved for reimbursement assuming the service member meets the eligibility requirements as outlined in the Coast Guard Voluntary Credentialing Program Policy (COMDTINST 1540.1(series))
Who is the Funding approved for?
CA is available to eligible active duty and SELRES members (enlisted and officers) as well as GS and WG civilian employees.
Note: Civilian employees who are occupying a position, or seeking to qualify for a position, that is excepted due to the confidential, policy-making nature of the position are ineligible for CA funding.
What are the eligibility requirements?
How Do I schedule the Certification Exam?
We developed an automated process to accommodate scheduling and access. The most important part is for you to receive the funding. After that our system will guide you.
To begin the process please follow these steps:
Please contact us if you need additional paperwork or receipts for reimbursement.
How Do I Study for the Certification Exam?
The most comprehensive way to study and prepare for the Certification Exam:
What Fees Are Associated with this Credential?
Certification Exam: $890
Recertification: $295
Recertification Cycle: Every 5 years starting from the date of the original certification
Pro Membership: $95/year (1st year free)
Does the credential need to be related to the service member‘s rating or civilian employee’s job?
Military personnel: No. The requested credential does not have to be related to rating, officer specialty, or collateral duty. IAW ALCOAST 177/22, service members may request funding for any credential on the CG COOL site.
Civilian personnel: Per ALCOAST 203/23, Credentialing Assistance for participating civilian employees is only authorized for credentials that are related to the employee’s current position and the anticipated needs of the Coast Guard. Civilians can find credentials related to their federal job series here
Who do I contact with questions about cg cool, approvals and reimbursement?
Contact the Education and Training Quota Management Command’s (ETQC) voluntary credentialing office at
smb-etqc-cap@uscg.mil or 757-756-5300