Officers learn principles of being flight commanders

  • Published
  • By Capt. Candice Dillitte
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  Officers from both RAFs Mildenhall and Lakenheath participated in a flight commanders' course hosted by the Professional Development Center here Sept. 24 and 25, 2015.

The course focused on enhancing a flight commander's leadership, management and supervisory skills, and included guest speakers from base leadership. The first day of instruction included writing skills, important tips when deploying as a company grade officer, a squadron command lunch and learn, and a flight commanders' question and answer session.

During the lunch and learn, Lt. Col. Roy Recker, 48th Operations Support Squadron commander, mentored the class of 19 officers about what it takes to be a great leader.

"The best leader is the one who is reading, reflecting and writing," Recker said. "I wish I'd taken more time when I was a younger officer to read more. It truly is invaluable. I recommend you take the time now. Relationships are also essential. Don't undervalue your peers who wear a different badge or uniform. You will need them one day."

Some of the students expressed challenges with focusing on learning their job, becoming overwhelmed with administrative work while not losing sight of the bigger picture and what they bring to the fight.

Lt. Col. Brandon Sokora, 100th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, enlightened the group on what he recommends doing when he needs to stay focus and recharge.

"Get out from behind your desk, go out and see your Airman," Sokora said. "Spend time with them. Learn what they do. It always puts a smile on my face."

The second day of the course discussed the fundamentals of flight budgeting, force management and manpower, and included a chiefs' lunch and learn as well as a first sergeant's panel.

First sergeants from both bases provided their feedback on the importance of flight commanders utilizing their position in the first sergeant capacity.

"One of the main things I like to tell my flight commanders is that we're a resource," said Senior Master Sgt. Kerri Bjorkholm, 100th Operations Group first sergeant. "We tend to have a lot of knowledge. Use us. We're here to help."

Ultimately, the course aimed to impart knowledge and advice that would help mold the officers into current and future successful flight commanders.

"As a new flight commander, this course exposed me and the other students to several different facets of management and leadership skills required to perform as a flight commander," said 1st Lt. Adam Ray, 100th Communication Squadron Cyber Operations flight commander. "With lessons ranging from bullet writing to civilian personnel employment, I now feel better equipped to lead my team in the 100th Communications Squadron."

Ray said he recommends this course to all Company Grade Officers, from new arrivals to senior captains. The lessons, discussions and interactions with both peers and leaders from across Team Mildenhall is an experience that is unparalleled.

"I wish I had attended this course sooner," Ray added.