Chapter 4: The NCO and the Team

The Learn to Lead Volume 1, Chapter 4 module, “The Art and the Science”, is the fourth of eleven leadership modules, which combined, make up the first three phases of Civil Air Patrol's Leadership Program for cadets.  This is an audio book recording version of this chapter of the Learn to Lead textbook.Professionalism is not the job you do, but how you do it. When there are new recruits to train, the armed services turn to the non-commissioned officer corps. Indeed, NCOs are experts in drill, the uniform, and fitness, but even more their professionalism makes a lasting impression. Air Force pilots know their aircraft are mission-ready because they trust in the professionalism of the NCOs who maintain them. When a fighter jet is low on fuel, it will be an NCO committed to an ideal of professionalism who refuels it from an altitude of 30,000 feet. Even when the Air Force needs to transform officer trainees into lieutenants, the NCOs’ professionalism makes them ready for the challenge.