Follow on Training for Air Force Officers Focused on the New Airman Leadership Qualities

Follow on Training for Air Force Officers Focused on the New Airman Leadership Qualities

Elizabeth Vaughan Moyer | 2021

Abstract

The Department of the Air Force revamped how to evaluate commissioned officers. In early 2021, the Air Force Chief of Staff, General Charles Brown, established ten Airman Leadership Qualities (ALQs). The ALQs focused on character and competence and were based on four performance areas that coincide with the four Major Graded Areas (MGAs). The author developed an ALQ development program for Air Force officers since no formal training has been established.

The pilot consisted of a comprehensive program for officers to develop their ALQs using various methods, including coaching, mentorship, scenario-based training, case studies, exercises, panels, and test questions. Officers were assigned pre-reading and work and prepped for an interactive seminar focused on leading people. Topics included inclusion and teamwork, emotional intelligence, and communication. All of the tools and resources for the ALQ training were included in an interactive master document, allowing easy replication of the pilot at other Air Force installations.

Ultimately, the pilot program will continue expanding and providing Air Force officers tools to develop and improve performance.

Keywords: Airman Leadership Qualities, Training, Development, Performance Improvement