MCPON Speaks at NSSA Leadership Courses

MCPON Speaks at NSSA Leadership Courses

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike D. Stevens spoke with Sailors during petty officer leadership courses at Norfolk Ship Support Activity (NSSA), June 3.

 

“Leadership development has been, is, and will continue to be my number one priority,” said Stevens. “I believe no organization can rise above the capabilities of its leaders. If the Navy wants to remain relevant and we want to continue to evolve and get better, we must invest in leadership development.”

Stevens said the petty officer leadership courses will allow Sailors to develop some valuable skills.

Stevens said he hopes by speaking to Sailors in person, they will realize how adamant he is about instilling these leadership skills.

“I want them to understand that by me showing up face to face, I am serious about this initiative toward developing leaders and I want them to go out and spread the good word,” said Stevens.

Not only does Stevens want Sailors to spread the word about leadership, he wants them to take action towards leadership skills development.

“I am asking my E-6 and E-5 Sailors to spend some time throughout the month and throughout the year to do some refresher leadership development training,” he said. “After you put on the new chevron and a couple of months go by, gather the Sailors in your division and hold some refresher training and ensure these skills are being put to use and staying current.”

Damage Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Gregory Abrams from NSSA said MCPON’s visit helped remind him of the importance of good leadership.

“Leadership is not just at an LPO or a chief level but works across the board for all Sailors,” said Abrams. “We learned early, as firemen and 3rd classes, as we increase in rank there are more responsibilities such as leading the Sailors below us.”

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Press Release, June 06, 2014; Image: Wikimedia