Who holds the final qualification authority in the PQS program?

In the Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) program, the Commanding Officer (CO) holds the final qualification authority. This responsibility is crucial as the CO is the designated leader and decision-maker for the command, ensuring that all personnel meet the necessary qualifications and standards required to perform their duties effectively. The CO's authority includes oversight of the qualification process, reviewing qualifications, and validating that personnel are adequately prepared for their roles. This ensures a high standard of readiness and safety within the command, reflecting the CO's ultimate accountability for the unit's performance and operational capability. Other roles, such as the Leading Chief Petty Officer, Division Officer, and Unit Coordinator, play supportive and supervisory roles in the qualification process but do not have the final say in qualification matters.