A data acquisition system for a work machine has at least one sensor disposed on the work machine. The at least one sensor is configured to produce a signal indicative of an operating parameter of the work machine. The data acquisition system also has an identification module disposed on the work machine and configured to receive an input corresponding to a machine operator. The data acquisition system further has a controller disposed on the work machine and in communication with the at least one sensor and the identification module. The controller is configured to record and link the signal and the input. The data acquisition system additionally has a communication module disposed on the work machine and in communication with the controller. The communication module is configured to transfer the recorded and linked signal and input from the controller to an off-board system.