Leadership course develops future leaders

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Tyran Lawson
  • 944th Logistics Readiness Squadron
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Today's airmen are able to study and learn from the rich heritage of leaders that have set the example throughout Air Force history. The Non Commissioned Officer Leadership Development Course (NCOLDC) taps into that resource through an intense two week course that teaches the foundational differences between leadership and management as well as providing techniques for team building.

The 944th Civil Engineer Squadron recently hosted the two week course that not only focused on leadership but also addressed such issues retention.

The military leadership development part of the course was facilitated by Tech. Sgt. Tina Boyle Whyte, NCOIC of Training for the NCOLDC at Robins AFB, GA. "I really value the opportunity to develop leadership in others. The key qualities of leadership that we emphasize are the ability to influence others through motivation and inspiration," stated Sergeant Whyte. "Both of these require a leader to be an excellent communicator. Communication is essential to our success as a leader."

The course stresses the importance of developing effective leaders that will ensure the continuity of air power superiority. According to Sergeant Whyte, education is the key to developing military leaders. The time spent developing yourself further is never wasted time and many opportunities for success are created through education.

The students also discussed High Year Tenure and retention issues caused by poor supervision as well as the lack of meaningful work and training. The course attempts to help develop supervisors into leaders that will help retain qualified airmen and is also designed to correct poor supervision in order to maintain a high retention rate.

The two week NCOLDC was originally launched in 1989 and is held in partnership with Central Texas College. Upon completion of the course, Central Texas College awards 2 college credits and a certificate to the graduates.

Airmen interested in attending the next NCOLDC or in becoming a facilitator, contact the 944th Fighter Wing Education and Training Office at (623) 856-5318.