Mission critical teams (MCTs) are high-performing groups who train to solve complex problems under extreme pressure. Often, the most effective team members are subsequently selected to become instructors for future MCTs. However, these instructors often need more formal training in teaching and learning science. This paper explores the potential benefits of implementing instructional coaching in MCT training institutions. In doing so, it weaves together literature from education and psychology, incorporates firsthand experiences and observations from MCT instructors, and presents a job proposal for an instructional coach position. The paper argues that instructional coaching, informed by positive psychology principles, can enhance instructor effectiveness, improve trainer and trainee well-being, and optimize overall training outcomes. It also discusses the limitations of existing research and suggests avenues for future investigation.

Keywords: positive psychology, instructional coaching, training cadre, special operations, mission critical teams