The U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command celebrated the graduation of 22 Upward Leadership Investment for Tomorrow program participants Dec. 12 at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, marking the completion of a year-long leadership development program designed to build the Army’s next generation of civilian leaders.
Hosted by AMCOM Lift program manager and senior instructor Thomas Olszowy, the event showcased the success of the 12-month program, which provides new Army civilian employees with practical leadership training and professional development opportunities. AMCOM G1 Director Carlen Chestang Jr. served as the guest speaker and presented certificates to the graduates.
“You’ve taken an important step to develop yourselves and become stronger leaders,” said Chestang. “This program challenges participants to step outside of their comfort zones, face tough conversations, and grow both personally and professionally. I’m proud of what you’ve accomplished.”
The UpLIFT program focuses on Army leadership principles, leadership styles, active listening, and practical team-building activities. Graduates completed a variety of assignments, including capstone projects, community service initiatives and site visits to broaden their understanding of the Army profession.
Olszowy praised the graduates for their commitment and willingness to embrace the challenges of the program. “Leadership is about people, and stepping out from behind the desk is what this program is all about,” he said. “We pushed you out of your comfort zones, and you’re better leaders for it.”
The class also traveled to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where they had the opportunity to interact with Soldiers, observe aviation maintenance facilities, and even ride in a helicopter—a memorable experience for many.
Reflecting on the journey, graduate John Rickles from AMCOM’s Aviation Logistics Center said, “It’s a different view from up here,” referring to the perspective gained through the program’s leadership exercises.
Robust mentoring and training sessions throughout the year allowed participants to engage with senior leaders across Redstone Arsenal, further strengthening their leadership networks.
As the ceremony concluded, Chestang encouraged graduates to carry the lessons they learned back to their organizations. “Be ambassadors for leadership development and pay it forward,” he said. “Take what you’ve learned and use it to make your teams better.”
The next UpLIFT class is scheduled to begin in January 2025, continuing AMCOM’s investment in building a strong, resilient workforce prepared to meet the Army’s mission.
UpLIFT Graduates:
Brandon C. Bunley, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Brendan K. Burns, AMCOM G-1
Ladarius T. Calloway, AMCOM Logistics Center
Matthew R. Coronel, AMCOM Logistics Center
Dr. Jeffrey D. Cox, Army Contracting Command
Dr. Felicia D. Haywood, PEO Missile and Space
Alyson M. Hergert, AMCOM Logistics Center
Jasime D. Jones, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Joowon Lee, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Schylo L. Lopez-Ruiz, AMCOM Logistics Center
Anthony C. Powell, AMCOM Logistics Center
John P. Rickles, AMCOM Logistics Center
Porshe’ M. Robinson, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Olivia D. Roy, AMCOM Logistics Center
Kayla Lee Stewart, AMCOM Logistics Center
Natasha A. Tabor, U.S. Army Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Activity
Alexzina Taylor Wilks, AMCOM Legal
Larry N. Tharps II, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Michael Z. Tyler, U.S. Army Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Activity
Mallory D. Vallone-Wells, AMCOM Security Assistance Management Directorate
Nenah-Piper I. White, AMCOM Logistics Center
Dave B. Wilson III, U.S. Army Garrison, Redstone Arsenal
Date Taken: | 12.17.2024 |
Date Posted: | 12.17.2024 16:23 |
Story ID: | 487740 |
Location: | REDSTONE ARSENAL, ALABAMA, US |
Web Views: | 44 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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