Our Story

Waterfront Training Solutions, Inc. (WTS) was founded in 2022 by Steven Dutter, a visionary leader with a deep-rooted understanding of the U.S. Navy's complex manpower and training landscape. Steve's journey began long before the inception of WTS, building a formidable career marked by progressive leadership roles and a consistent drive to enhance the readiness and capabilities of naval personnel.

Prior to establishing WTS, Steve served as the Ready Relevant Learning (RRL) Program Manager and RRL Current Operations Branch Head at US Fleet Forces Command (USFF N1) from 2017 to 2022. In this critical position, he spearheaded the development and implementation of the Fleet Commander's RRL Vision and Guidance, ensuring strategic alignment across senior Navy leadership. His exceptional ability to forge consensus led to the VCNO-approved RRL Governance Charter and the establishment of key integration and steering committees involving top Navy leadership. Steve's impact was further amplified through his adept management of all USFF RRL contracts, driving the development of modernized accession rate training paths incorporating cutting-edge virtual learning and simulation technologies. He also authored the RRL Process Manual, establishing repeatable processes for training development and delivery, securing buy-in from a multitude of Navy stakeholders. His strategic communication skills were evident in his regular briefings to Flag and SES-level leadership, ensuring program transparency and alignment. Notably, Steve championed the RRL IT Concept of Operations (CONOPS), laying the groundwork for IT infrastructure improvements crucial for modern, distributed learning. His focus on measurable outcomes led to the development of program metrics that provided critical insights into effectiveness and performance. Recognizing the growing demands of the RRL program, Steve successfully advocated for and secured significant manpower increases within USFF N1 and the TYCOM N7s, ensuring the program had the necessary personnel to succeed. His forward-thinking approach also led to the development of the Career-Long Learning Continuum (CLLC) concept and the initial rating continuums, as well as the management of the RRL Rating & Career Domain Continuum (RCDC) data warehouse. His strategic engagement during the challenging POM-23 cycle resulted in securing nearly $415 million in vital training investments across the Fleet. Steve's exceptional leadership was further recognized through a temporary appointment as the Individual Training and RRL Director (GS-15).

Steve's extensive experience extends further, including roles as the Waterfront Training Director at NUWC Newport and NSWC Philadelphia. As the first NAVSEA waterfront training representative in over 15 years, he re-established critical lines of communication between various Navy training and operational entities, driving focused and rapid training improvements across the Surface Warfare Enterprise. He authored and implemented the Technical Training Audit Program (TTAP) and the Integrated Training Systems Development Manual to address training deficiencies. His innovative approach led to the development of enhanced technical training methodologies incorporating 3D modeling and hands-on skill validation. Steve also conceptualized and modernized the Surface Training Advanced Virtual Environment (STAVE), fielding the first virtual operator and maintenance task trainers. His expertise was crucial in managing new training system procurement and delivery for various ship classes and in developing cutting-edge virtual/synthetic training utilizing actual shipboard tactical software. Steve's capabilities extended internationally, managing training development efforts for Presidential initiatives with Saudi Arabia and the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard. Earlier in his career, Steve served as the Training & Readiness Department Head for Commander, LHD Class Squadron, where he was responsible for the life-cycle manning, training, and equipping of naval ships. He also served as the Training, Mobility & Readiness Officer N7 for Commander Naval Surface Forces, Atlantic, managing training and readiness for the entire Atlantic surface fleet. His deep understanding of naval operations was further honed as an Engineering Readiness Assessor at Afloat Training Group Atlantic and as the Chief Engineering Department Head aboard the USS McFaul (DDG 74). Steve's distinguished naval career also includes service as a Navigation Officer, Safety Officer, Auxiliaries/Electrical Officer, and as an instructor and communications specialist.

This extensive and diverse background, culminating in the establishment of Waterfront Training Solutions, Inc., provides the bedrock of our commitment to delivering uniquely qualified partnership and impactful solutions for the Department of the Navy's critical training and workforce development needs. WTS leverages Steve's profound understanding of naval operations, training requirements, and strategic planning to provide unparalleled expertise in manpower analytics, workforce classification, targeted training program development, and strategic personnel development, all with a steadfast dedication to optimizing taxpayer dollars and achieving the highest value outcomes.