Reflecting on the Leadership in Training Professional Development Path: 12 Weeks of Growth and Leadership

October 17, 2024 | Testimonial provided by Madeline Multer, LMSW, FY24 Leadership in Training Professional Development Participant and Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) Naval Base Kitsap’s Fleet and Family Support Center

The Leadership in Training (LIT) Professional Development Path provided an eye-opening journey into leadership, collaboration and personal growth over 12 transformative weeks, combing online coursework and in-person meetings. My fellow participants and I were challenged to dive deep into our leadership styles, tackle real-world problems and connect with others across the Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) enterprise. From Graduate School courses on Change Management to LinkedIn Learning’s SWOT Analysis and mastering the “7 Habits of Highly Effective Leaders,” every moment was designed to make us stronger, more agile leaders.

This program was not just about theory; each week brought new insights from guest speakers who shared their expertise, providing a well-rounded understanding of leadership across FFR. As the weeks progressed, so did the sense of community among the LIT cohort, culminating in a ?week-long gathering in Millington, Tennessee.

Millington: The Grand Finale

After weeks of virtual learning, it was time to connect face-to-face. The energy in the room was palpable as participants mingle, shared stories and reflected on their collective experiences. During the opening session, we discovered something inspiring—this group of trailblazers collectively held 170 years of experience within FFR. That realization set the tone for the week, empowering everyone to delve deeper into their roles and network even more.

A highlight of the week was a friendly competition where participants put their FFR knowledge to the test, working across various entities. This reinforced the understanding of FFR’s mission and goals, highlighting the growth over the course of the program. The collaboration reminded us that leadership is not just about individual advancement, but about supporting the broader mission.

Capstone Projects: Proving Leadership in Action

The culmination of the LIT Professional Development Path was the Capstone Project. Each team had the chance to apply their learning, solve real challenges and present their findings to FFR leaders. It was a powerful moment to witness the growth and transformation that occurred throughout the program, showcasing the readiness to lead and drive change.

Looking Ahead: Bringing it All Home

One of the biggest takeaways from the LIT Program was the importance of breaking down silos. We learned to lean on each other as subject matter experts, encouraging collaboration and open communication across FFR. This was not just a lesson in leadership; it was a lesson in community and teamwork.

As we move forward, the skills, insights and connections we gained from the LIT Program will continue to shape our work. We’re ready to implement our newfound knowledge in our respective FFR and Quality of Life Programs, making a lasting impact. The LIT Program has set us up for success, and we can’t wait to see where this journey takes us next.