TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- A member of Tinker Air Force Base recently participated in the Defense Civilian Emerging Leader Program.
Candice Russell, a 72nd Force Support Squadron manpower analyst, participated in the four-week program alongside 130 other government employees from different sectors and different countries. Eight participants hailed from Tinker AFB.
DCELP offers a dynamic learning environment for entry-level and emerging Federal leaders at the GS 7-12 or equivalent level. During the four seminars lasting one week each, participants are immersed in a variety of experiential activities that promote self-awareness, professional development, enhance oral and written communication skills, share proven team building strategies, and strengthen overall leadership capabilities.
“The DCELP program is designed for potential future leaders, with training on how to lead with your authentic self,” said Russell. “I’ve created everlasting bonds and how to let that shine through. You learn from others and how their leadership style may be different from your own however, can use each other’s strengths to accomplish the mission. From this program, it not only gave me tools to lead effectively, but to also apply these lessons in everyday relationships. I learned it takes courage to be your authentic self.”
The program gives participants the opportunity to learn, grow, and practice what they learned in their respective workplace.
“It’s a challenge but it’s worth it, the program shows you how to be an effective leader,” said Russell. “You do not have to be in a position of authority to lead. I took a lot away from the course. You build some really strong relationships.”
Participants learn how to work well with others and the program encouraged productive introspection to deepen their self-awareness with activities such as the Johari Window and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator assessment. These activities helped participants to identify their blind spots in their leadership, work relationships, and decision-making.
The four weekly class subjects were “Knowing Self”, “Expressing Self”, “Leading Teams” and “Leading with Intent”. The program also has team building exercises and volunteer opportunities.
At the conclusion of the program, DCELP participants come away with added tools to thrive in today’s government.
To learn more about the DCELP program visit: https://www.dcpas.osd.mil/learning/civilianleaderdevelopment/defensecivilianemerging