RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Leaders of Air Education and Training Command discussed issues big and small when Gen. Stephen Lorenz, AETC commander, hosted his first commander's and command chiefs' conference here Oct. 27-31.
In light of the 2008 Air Force Climate Survey underway until Nov. 26, General Lorenz, his base commanders and command chief master sergeants sought to forge the future by coming together to exchange information and ideas.
"My goal is to identify and be proactive in responding to issues that are universal to the entire command," General Lorenz said.
Early in the week, the commanders spent time discussing the different types and styles of leadership to help build the team. Through study of historical leadership and visits to a local museum, commanders were able to broaden their view and expand their breadth of knowledge on leadership by examining it against their own styles.
"I've learned over the years that everyone, not just leaders, must be in continual improvement," General Lorenz said. "One really good way to do that is to study the biographies of those who have gone before you. Once you realize they have had to face the same adversity and struggles you face today, you can learn from their mistakes and successes. If you study enough, you can be confident that other people made it and so can you."
Later in the week, numbered air force and equivalents -- 19th AF, 2nd AF, Air Force Recruiting Service and Air University -- conducted a break-out session during which commanders and chiefs compiled issues and concerns they would like AETC to review.
Many of the issues dealt with personnel resourcing, a complex topic that will require coordination not only within AETC, but also at Air Force level.
General Lorenz said the timeline for studying those issues and implementing solutions "varies for each of the issues based on their intensity and complexity."
"We will do our best to close out each tasking identified from this week by the spring commanders' conference," the general said. "Implementation time varies, but I can assure you that we are monitoring each issue."
With units in locations across the United States, General Lorenz has visited most of the command's bases and has scheduled visits to the remainder.
"From literally coast to coast, the thing that continually impresses me the most is our Airmen and instructors," General Lorenz said. "Each of them is making a difference in people's lives, and they are all phenomenal. This young generation of Airmen who are serving the Air Force today are what I consider the next great generation of leaders."
The success of the event hinged on the support of the host base and the 12th Flying Training Wing, General Lorenz said. "I want to personally thank the 12th FTW for their great support throughout the conference."