Corps of Cadets Leadership Progression
Corps of Cadets Leadership Progression Overview
Starting in January 2025, the Edwards Leadership Development Program will introduce a structured leadership progression for first-year (4/C) and transfer cadets. The program, held on Friday mornings, will focus on building active followership, understanding the Corps鈥� Rules & Regulations, and fostering community. This foundation will prepare cadets for future leadership roles. While participation is required for 4/C cadets, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are also welcome.
Leadership Philosophy
The Corps operates under the principle "We are all crew, no passengers," meaning every cadet plays a vital role in the Corps' success. This shared commitment is central to our leadership development approach, ensuring that everyone contributes to the mission.
Leadership Progression Phases
- Phase 1 (January 2025): For 4/C cadets (first-year/transfer), focusing on active followership and understanding the Corps鈥� regulations.
- Phase 2 (Fall 2025): For 3/C cadets (sophomores), advancing leadership skills.
- Phase 3: As cadets progress to 1/C (seniors), they will develop self-leadership, teamwork, and professional skills while managing the Corps' daily operations.
Leadership Development Focus Areas
- 4/C (First-Year Cadets): Active Followership 鈥� Learning what it means to be a Cadet.
- 3/C (Sophomore Cadets): Peer Leadership 鈥� Enhancing teamwork and preparing for leadership roles.
- 2/C (Junior Cadets): Designated Leadership 鈥� Building skills for formal leadership within the Corps.
- 1/C (Senior Cadets): Self-Leadership 鈥� Refining leadership skills and preparing for professional success while managing Corps operations.
Circles of Responsibility
As cadets advance in class standing, they take on more responsibility:
- 4/C Cadets: Least responsibility, meeting four times a month for leadership sessions.
- 3/C Cadets: More responsibility, meeting twice a month.
- 2/C Cadets: Greater responsibility, meeting once a month.
- 1/C Cadets: Most responsibility, focusing on professional development and mentoring without regular leadership sessions.
Core Leadership Skills
The leadership curriculum emphasizes:
- Communication: Effective communication, feedback, and conflict resolution.
- Judgment & Decision-Making: Training in risk management and decision-making.
- Resilience: Developing adaptability under pressure.
- Vision & Action: Setting clear goals and actionable steps.
- Teamwork: Fostering collaboration with a "we are all crew" mentality.
- Self-Awareness: Understanding personal strengths and weaknesses.
- Mentorship: Building skills to guide peers.
- Competence: Developing professional skills in maritime operations.
Mentorship and the Guardian Concept
- 4/C Cadets: Mentored by upperclassmen and assigned accountability buddies.
- 3/C Cadets: Act as peer mentors to 4/C, providing leadership guidance.
- 2/C Cadets: Serve as formal leaders for 3/C, refining leadership strategies.
- 1/C Cadets: Lead the entire Corps, focusing on professional growth while mentoring underclassmen.
- Guardian Concept: Senior cadets serve as 鈥淕uardians,鈥� guiding underclassmen, upholding leadership values, and encouraging self-improvement.
Mission of the Corps of Cadets
The Corps is dedicated to fostering professionalism, teamwork, pride, and self-discipline, preparing cadets for leadership roles in maritime and other industries. Through a structured environment combining rigorous standards and hands-on training, cadets acquire essential skills for future leadership positions.