Early in my career, I had the privilege of participating in the Leadership Robins Region program; a transformative 9-month experience rooted in the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute curriculum.

The program began with an overnight stay at Robins Air Force Base, preparing our group of 25 individuals for leadership orientation and ROPES activities the next morning. At the time, I knew only one other participant, but this unfamiliarity set the stage for meaningful growth.

The goal of the first session was clear: uncover the team’s strengths and weaknesses, master concise communication, practice active listening, and understand how each member contributes to accomplishing the team’s mission.

Key Takeaways

The pictures captured from our activities revealed some enduring truths about leadership:

• The importance of effective communication
• The value of teamwork
• The necessity of building trust

These ingredients form the foundation of exemplary leadership.

I also walked away with lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career:

• You cannot hold someone accountable for something you failed to teach.
• Everyone is both a teacher and a learner.
• Leadership skills can always be improved.

This program not only equipped me with critical experiences but also broadened my perspective across various industries. It became a cornerstone of my career progression, shaping the leader I am today.