New training simulations are being developed at an increasingly rapid rate to improve skills ranging from piloting and driving proficiency to learning tactical decision making and logistics. While these training simulations often have high physical fidelity (the landscape, buildings, vehicles, and people look real), they often lack cognitive fidelity (the decisions people are making are not realistic). Developers commonly have a clear picture of the "what" that needs to be accomplished such as what tasks need to be trained. However, developers rarely address the "why" (why is this decision challenging?) and "how" (what information do you need to make this decision?) components in their simulations. This study used Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) and Decision Requirements Tables (DRTs) to fill this gap. Through CTA we identified several cognitive training requirements of Joint Force Air Component Commanders (JFACCs). The results of CTA interviews with experienced JFACCs were analyzed and the critical decisions they identified, such as managing and prioritizing their activities associated with the air tasking order (ATO) battle rhythm or ATO cycle, were evaluated. JFACCs will often engage in numerous ATO planning processes concurrently, and given the limited time they have, they must be able to prioritize these critical tasks. DRTs were then used by the developers to create a training simulation that realistically replicated the stressful decision-making environment within a Joint Air Operations Center. Additional benefits noted by the developers were that the DRTs eliminated the need for multiple versions of the tool and reduced the time needed for modifications and repetitive testing. Finally, not only did the DRTs lead to reduced development time, they also led to increased training effectiveness.