Leadership Trek challenges 22nd AF commanders

22nd Air Force, Georgia -- Twenty-second Air Force leaders gathered for a leadership trek at DeSoto State Park, Alabama Feb. 23-25 hosted by 22nd Air Force Commander Maj. Gen. John Stokes.

The two-day outdoor excursion for 11 of the Numbered Air Force’s Direct Reporting Unit commanders focused on getting to know one other, improving teamwork, cohesion and developing as leaders.

“I noticed during our senior leader conference in November that the commanders of our DRUs really didn't know each other,” said Stokes. “I saw the need to deepen the relationships across our command group to build trust and foster teamwork. Getting our commanders away from the normal settings of a conference center, with no other staff around, seemed a great way for us to accomplish this objective.”

Col. Kenneth Ostrat, who took command of the 908th Airlift Wing March 5, applauded the event as a great introduction to the 22nd Air Force leadership team.

“While the setting was atypical for the Air Force, it was a perfect way for a small group to come together and share leadership lessons and coalesce as a team,” Ostrat said. “It was an excellent opportunity for me to be introduced to my fellow wing and DRU group commanders.”

Stokes forewarned his commanders that the Leadership Trek would be memorable and likely be different than off-sites they had participated in before. DeSoto State Park is located on Lookout Mountain, eight miles northeast of Fort Payne, Alabama.

“The location for this event is rustic,” Stokes stated in an email. “You will sleep in cabins and all meals will be prepared in a field kitchen, or an MRE will be provided. You should expect a lot of physical activity during this event. You will be logging a few more steps than you do on a typical day in the office!”

After rallying in Atlanta, the group was bussed approximately 120 miles to the Park, where they checked into their cabins and took part in an evening campfire mentoring session. Over the course of the next day, the group hiked the park’s trails where they were met along the way by speakers from Air University, Air Force Special Operations Command and Air Force Reserve Command.

“Maj. Gen. Stokes wanted us to focus on understanding our leadership and communication styles, work-life balance, and our relationships to make us more effective leaders,” said Brig. Gen. Steven Parker, 94th Airlift Wing commander. “I enjoyed the hike through Desoto State Park and also having the opportunity to hear other commanders' thoughts around the camp fire.”

Col. Lori Walden, 622nd Civil Engineer Group commander, said the trek was helpful to her continued growth as a leader.

“We were able to discuss and reflect on our individual leadership styles and then focus on areas of improvement to further enhance leadership skillsets,” said Walden. “In my opinion, the short time spent was exponentially beneficial to our continued professional development as leaders.

Stokes was satisfied with the outcome of the event and said he looks forward to future events for leaders throughout 22nd Air Force.

“This was an unconventional and cost effective way to achieve our objectives,” said Stokes. “We accomplished all of the desired outcomes I had for this event. All of the feedback I have received is positive and I look forward to another similar event in the future.”