Officer Leadership Training
In order to become an officer in the military, some type of training is usually required. Training can consist of a formalized program or on-the-job training.
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Formal Training Programs
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In addition to the institutions which train military personnel, there are specialized tracks that focus on leadership training specifically for those interested in becoming officers. This advanced training includes practical leadership exercises, obstacle courses that help soldiers overcome fears, field environments, drills and real-life scenarios--all focused on small-unit leadership and tactics. This extra training typically ranges from 11 to 41 weeks.
On-the-Job Training
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Military personnel who have not undergone formalized training can still become officers. Their training consists of field training and mentoring from their commanding officers. This approach is more of a job shadowing/understudy type of training. This gives potential officers hands-on and field experience while learning from their leader.
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Benefits
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By undergoing training, potential officers learn specialized skills, tactics, techniques and doctrine of their chosen branch, and prepare for success as a future leader. Although it is challenging, officers come out of training tougher, smarter, more confident and more prepared to lead soldiers.
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References
- Photo Credit officer image by Snezana Skundric from Fotolia.com