STRENGTH IN UNITY: Senior NCOs Enhance Leadership in a Multinational Environment
For two incredible weeks, we had the opportunity to attend the Advanced Leadership Course in a multinational environment. As Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs), we quickly formed strong connections—after all, we are the backbone of any military. This course brought together NCOs from NATO nations and Partnership for Peace (PfP) countries, providing a unique experience in professional development, leadership, and teamwork whilst surrounded in the stunning Swiss landscape.
By Petty Officer (PO) Johnathan Kent, Royal Australian Navy, and Warrant Officer (WO) Dion Ward, Royal Canadian Air Force
A Global Network of NCOs
One of the most rewarding aspects of the course was working alongside NCOs from outside the NATO alliance. The exchange of ideas and experiences with those from diverse military backgrounds offered fresh perspectives on how we approach contemporary Military challenges. Some of the skills covered in the course were familiar to many, but others were entirely new, reinforcing the idea that learning never stops, regardless of rank or experience.
This wasn’t just about refining technical or tactical skills; it was about discussing real problems we all face in modern military life. Despite our different uniforms, languages, and nationalities, we quickly realized we share many of the same challenges—whether managing junior personnel, adapting to operational demands, or balancing leadership with personal development.
No Gaps in the Swiss Cheese Model[1]
In leadership training, there are often gaps in the system—weaknesses that create vulnerabilities, much like holes in the Swiss cheese model. However, this course left no holes. The content, structure, organization, and delivery were exemplary. The instructors were professional, engaging, and dedicated to ensuring each participant walked away with something valuable.
We were not passive learners; we were active participants. The course fostered a collaborative environment with coaching, mentoring, and open discussions at its core. This wasn’t a simple «tick-the-box» exercise—it was an immersive experience that challenged us to think critically, reflect on our leadership styles, and refine our approach to mentoring the next generation of military professionals.
Multinational Bonds: From Canada to Australia
One of the most significant takeaways was the importance of building strong multinational relationships. Working together in an operational setting is one thing, but connecting on both a professional and personal level in a learning environment is another.
This course provided a rare opportunity to forge lasting relationships across continents, strengthening bonds not just at the command level but within the NCO community itself. From Canada’s vast landscapes to Australia’s stunning coastlines, we’ve built bridges that extend far beyond this two-week course.
Team-Building Day: Strength in Unity on the Ice
In addition to professional development, we participated in team-building activities that showcased the strength of unity. On one memorable day, some members of the class took to the curling rink, while others embraced the ice with skates and hockey sticks. The Canadians, Finns, and Swiss were in their element, showing their partners from Down Under—Australia and New Zealand—as well as our friend from Moldova—the true spirit of camaraderie. Whether sliding stones down the curling lanes or shooting pucks into the net, laughter and shared experiences strengthened the bonds we’d already begun to form.
This informal setting allowed us to connect outside the classroom and collaborate in a different team dynamic. It was a reminder that leadership isn’t only about what we do in uniform but how we work together as human beings.
Final Thoughts: A Course Worth Attending
Reflecting on these two weeks, we can confidently say that this course was one of the most valuable leadership experiences of our careers. It reinforced the power of multinational cooperation, the value of continued learning, and the essential role of SNCOs in shaping the future of our armed forces.
To our instructors, course coordinators, and fellow participants—thank you. The knowledge and connections we’ve gained will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our leadership, our teams, and the broader military community.
For anyone considering this course in the future: embrace it, engage with it, and take full advantage of the opportunity. You won’t just learn leadership skills—you’ll gain a network of allies and friends that span the globe.
Thanks By’e ! and See ya later, Mate
[1] Reason, J. (1990). Human Error. Cambridge University Press.