An Exploration of How U.S. Air Force-Rated Officers Could Become Effective Leaders.

摘要

This modified van Kaam phenomenological study was used to collect interview data from 20 rated officers in a United States Air Force flying squadron to explore four categories: leadership traits, leadership styles, leadership behaviors, and elements of effective leadership. The purpose of this qualitative study was to discover how rated officers could become more effective as leaders in the USAF. Rated officers are commissioned aviators in the military who fly in diverse environments worldwide. While the USAF offers continued education and experience in technical competencies, this focus on enhancing aeronautical skills will not strengthen their ability to command squadrons. The problem was that lower-level rated officers were not given the appropriate opportunities to develop the leadership skills needed to command squadrons in times of war or peace. This void in leadership could ultimately degrade the quality and strength of the USAF. The modified van Kaam phenomenological research method included a strategy of inquiry to explore how current rated officers can acquire leadership training and discovered how they can enhance future training. Key results indicated that officers could commit to an aeronautical career if they sought leadership experience through alternative means. Followership, volunteering, and extracurricular activities were suggested methods that officers could use to discover combinations of leadership traits, styles, behaviors, and elements of effective leadership. One recommendation was to urge aviators in the military to seek out characteristics of transformational leadership and remain flexible in the USAF. Another recommendation is to conduct future studies that compare rated and nonrated USAF officers' leadership effectiveness after acquiring more experience using transformational leadership styles and behaviors in diverse situations.