Mentoring is an essential ingredient in developing well-rounded, professional, and competent future leaders. The goal of mentoring in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) Cadet Program is to help cadets reach their full potential, thereby enhancing the overall professionalism of our nation.
Mentor means a trusted counselor or guide, tutor, or coach. Mentors are helpers.
Mentoring is a relationship in which a person with greater experience and wisdom guides another person to develop both personally and professionally. Mentoring is one of the broadest methods we have available today to encourage human growth and develop the talent pool for today’s and tomorrow’s leaders.
Mentoring is an informal relationship because it fosters free communication by subordinates with superiors concerning their performance and duties, without fear of reprisal. It enhances morale and discipline and improves the operational environment while maintaining respect for authority.
CAP mentoring for cadets covers a wide range of areas, such as helping a cadet understand the progression steps through the program, guiding the cadet in his or her understanding of aerospace education, and setting an example of leadership. It also includes knowledge of the cadet program and an understanding of the Air Force’s core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.
The key to mentoring is the direct involvement of the unit commander in the development of his or her cadets. The commander must create an environment that continuously challenges the cadets to excel. The commander must provide opportunities for clear performance feedback and provide guidance in helping the cadets to set realistic professional and personal goals.
No comments:
Post a Comment