Civilian Leadership Course

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jesse Lopez
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Sixteen students graduated a leadership class as part of the Altus Civilian Training and Development program July 25, 2014.

The program provides tools for civilians to lead in offices and build professional relationships on base.

"The training gives students an inside view into what senior leadership looks like at Altus Air Force Base and how their leadership skills may be utilized locally," said Aelicea Day, 97th Force Support Squadron civilian development specialist.

The developmental training program began in 2009 designed specifically for civilians with General Schedule 4-11, Wage Grade and Non-Appropriated Fund job equivalents personnel actively seeking to become leaders in the base workforce.

"It provides participants the opportunity to explore management and leadership techniques, lead teams and problem solve in groups to create a valuable leadership network," said Day. "The training is locally based, so participants continue to have access to what they have learned and the contacts they have made."

The nine week course consists of various skill-building lessons to include: Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century, Mindset of Leadership, Get off Your 'S', Civilian Professional Development, a General Tommy Franks Leadership Session and Stephen Covey's Five Choices.

"These tools give emerging leaders the chance to interact closely with group commanders, enabling students to share information and explore challenges faced by Altus Air Force Base leadership," said Day.

The program is designed to build an active dialogue with leaders on crucial management and leadership challenges.

"No one is born a natural leader," said U.S. Air Force Col. Bill Spangenthal, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "That is why we dedicate time to creating leaders through innovative training and giving the opportunity for everyone to lead in some way, shape or form. Continuing this education and professional development will be the foundation for our success."