Officer Professional Development Seminars

  • Published
  • By Capt. Ryan Cox
  • 436th Airlift Wing Commander's Action Group
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  It has been over a year since Col. Michael Grismer,  436th Airlift Wing commander, kicked off the first leadership seminar known as Officer Professional Development (OPD) in the auditorium of the 3d Airlift Squadron. This program is a monthly opportunity for 241 of the young company grade officers stationed at Dover AFB to hear their leaders' perspectives, experiences and war stories in an open forum. Topics range from ethics discussions and political military relationships to the development of professional writing styles and providing feedback/mentorship to your people. 

For members who are unable to attend the lectures, the 436th Wing Staff has provided digital copies of the presentations and is considering the option of video recording each event. Feedback from the attendees has remained positive as young officers see this as a bonus, low-key mentoring session.

Not only have wing leaders provided their insight, but commanders from around the Air Force have also offered their mentorship. Notably, retired Gen. William J. Begert, former commander of Pacific Air Forces, graced OPD with his presence. He discussed what it takes to excel in a challenging environment and how he always believed he could do a better job if given the opportunity to serve at a higher capacity. This session provided a once-in-a-lifetime chance to sit down with a retired four-star general and hear his story first hand.  

This program has also strengthened the total force partnership between the 436th AW and the 512th AW. Recently, Col. Laura Radley, 512th Mission Support Group commander, provided a Reservist perspective on the concept of self-sacrifice and service during her presentation entitled "Should I Stay or Should I Go." The theme of the discussion focused on the decision to stay in the active duty or pursue "outside" endeavors. One of the highlights of her presentation was the email responses she received from general officers providing their opinions on "Should I Stay or Should I Go." Many individuals spoke highly of the presentation saying it was "one of the best we have seen," referring to Radley's masterful performance at this session of OPD.

As this program continues to grow, there is hope that more of our country's leaders will volunteer to enlighten the young officers here at Dover AFB. Furthermore, the wing has looked to strengthen its ties with both the Air Force Association and Airlift/Tanker Association local chapters by inviting members to the events for refreshments and discussion. Since our current Air Force leadership continues to push towards improved and sustained mentorship for our rising officers corps, it is safe to say that the future of Officer Professional Development will gain traction in the coming years.