CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
When you hear the acronym PME, what do you think of? Do you regard it as a means to an end, a "square to fill" or something more?
I recently returned from the pinnacle of formal enlisted professional military education, the Chief Leadership Course, and I have to say it was a worthwhile experience. Sure, it wasn't perfect and it has a few improvement opportunities, but I left the course a better Airman.
For me, I found several of the guest speakers informative and inspiring. Many of the discussions with my flights were spirited and enlightening, and I really appreciated time with our mentor. I also had an opportunity to review what others thought of my leadership style through a 360 degree feedback session - I definitely have some work to do.
I am not sure I had the same viewpoint before I went to the class, and in retrospect, I know I got more out of the class than expected.
The CLC is just one small part of our enlisted PME journey, and I can look back and see how each and every level made me a better follower, leader and Airman. Most of you are looking forward to some form of PME in your future whether you are enlisted, a commissioned officer, or even a civil service employee; we have some great opportunities for your future, but they will only be as great as you make it.
I like to ask all of our graduates what they thought of the class they attended, and how they have become better leaders. Most of them had a much more positive opinion compared to how they felt before going, and everyone came out learning something new to help them in their journey. I wonder how much more some of these Airmen would have taken away from the course if they had a better viewpoint before going?
How are you going to approach your next PME class? Are you going to treat it as another block to check toward your ascension in the ranks, or will you have a different mindset? I firmly believe you will leave the course more prepared to lead our Airmen if you go in with an open mind, energized to learn.
Awards are great, but I think the most successful graduates are those who strive to get the most out of the course. Sure, these courses are requirements for promotion, but I challenge you to look at them as opportunities for improvement rather than squares to fill. I hope your leadership journey is more successful as a result of your next PME course; I know mine will be.