A511.6.3.RB - A Leader From the Past

Think about your leaders from the past and reflect on their qualities. Did any of them exhibit the qualities of a transformational leader? Did the leader exhibit certain elements that made you want to work harder? In what ways were you transformed by the leader you are describing?

 After thinking about the many leaders from my past, I decided to reflect on Lt Col Christopher Joyce, my current squadron commander.  I have in the 509 Aircraft Maintenance Squadron for over two and a half years, most of which Col Joyce has been in command.  I'm currently in a position where I engage with him and other squadron supervision on a daily basis so I have firsthand knowledge of his leadership style, traits, and behaviors. I have been privileged to witness his actions and decisions as the commander.  Furthermore, Col Joyce has discussed his thoughts and decisions on many topics which have been beneficial for understanding his rationale and helping me grow as a leader. I can say with certainty that he exhibits the qualities of a transformational leader.


Northouse describes transformational leadership as "the process of how certain leaders are able to inspire followers to accomplish great things" (p. 190)  A leader accomplishes this through Idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration.

Idealized influence, or charisma, is an emotional component which "describes leaders who act as strong role models for followers; followers identify with these leaders". (Northouse, p. 167)  Col Joyce has expressed his charismatic leadership through his personality characteristics of self-confidence, desire to influence and strong moral values.  I have seen him deliberate decisions and confidently lead our squadron.  He has articulated his goals and communicated high expectations while inspiring us to enthusiastically accomplish the mission.

Col Joyce has encouraged squadron members to be creative, especially in finding ways to improve the squadron and morale.  Unlike other Commanders I've known in the past, he has allowed our sections to express individualism and camaraderie in a variety of ways.  With my section, for example, during Halloween, he allowed us to dress-up and decorate.  This may not seem like a big deal to most but in the military, especially in maintenance career fields, this is almost unheard of.  This ignited motivation and greatly increased morale.  The "Support" section has a bad reputation in the maintenance community as there is a stigma of this is where the "screw-ups" get sent.  However, this is not factual.  By Col Joyce allowing us the freedom to show pride in our section, we have lessened that stigma throughout the squadron and have influenced others to want to "join" our team.

Another initiative was an anonymous feedback website where squadron members can freely share their ideas for squadron improvement.  Through this process, Col Joyce has received dozens of innovative ideas for dealing with organizational issues.  By showing that he cares for us and is willing to work for us, Col Joyce has created a climate where we want to work harder for him.

Lt Col Joyce has also shown inspirational motivation through his actions.  He has implemented quarterly morale days, squadron picnics and Christmas parties.  Motivation and morale have increased through his focus on squadron improvements such as things as simple as new water fountains and murals.  One of the best examples of his inspiration was last year when he organized a Combat Dining Out.  This informal military "battle", filled with water fights and good-natured humor, began with Col Joyce riding in a trailer behind a lawnmower disguised as a tank, driven by our squadron chief.  Although extremely fun and a great way to let loose, this event was intended to integrate our team while reminding them of the bigger mission. It also included a motivational speech given by CMSgt Neil Jones, who has had several combat deployments as an EOD technician.

Finally, Col Joyce has displayed individualized consideration by providing a supportive climate.  He has personally acted as an advisor and mentor and constantly emulates the kind of leader I hope to become.  He is considerate, quick to listen and lend an ear.  Additionally, he thinks critically before making decisions and when it negatively affects a member of the squadron he takes his time to explain his reasoning.

Col Joyce's leadership has influenced me tremendously.  His support for the squadron has transferred down throughout the ranks making us a stronger, more cohesive team.  Furthermore, he has made me realize that you can enjoy yourself while accomplishing the mission; be firm yet fair; and influence without trying.  His charismatic and visionary leadership will forever be a reference point in my leadership journey.

"The 509th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron provides worldwide combat capability by planning and conducting all aspects of on-aircraft maintenance, launch and recovery of 20 B-2 aircraft in direct support of Joint Chiefs of Staff nuclear and conventional taskings.

The unit delivers maximum combat readiness while maintaining a deployable combat force capable of projecting B-2 global firepower at a moment's notice, anytime and anywhere."

Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice (7th ed). Los Angeles: SAGE

http://www.whiteman.af.mil/Units/509th-Maintenance-Group/