Why Leadership Development Is Important

Why do two-thirds of new leaders fail within 18 months?

Leadership isn’t just about learning new skills—it’s about becoming a new version of yourself.

And that transformation doesn’t happen overnight.

This week we are learning leadership lessons from the aviation industry with Craig Coyle.

Craig is a leadership development expert who focuses primarily on the manufacturing industry but uses lessons from aviation in his work. He is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy and a former U.S. Army Apache pilot.

Key Points:

02:53 Craig’s background: From Apache pilot to leadership development expert

06:57 Why two-thirds of new leaders fail

10:52 A three-part system for leadership development from the aviation industry

15:08 Implementing strategic leadership development

18:13 The value of a quick win for a new leader

Structure: Providing Leaders with Clear Expectations

Pilots don’t just hop into a cockpit and start flying—they follow a structured, repeatable training process. The same should apply to leadership development.

Instead of relying on one-off workshops, organizations should provide a clear learning journey with:

Defined leadership competencies
Interactive, scenario-based training
Step-by-step skill-building over time

Guidance: Providing Leaders with Intentional Support

Aviation training combines simulations, coaching, and real-world experience, ensuring pilots apply what they learn before flying solo.

Leadership development can do the same by:

Providing structured mentorship and coaching for real-time feedback
Encouraging peer learning to build confidence and problem-solving skills

Community: Providing Leaders with Peer Support and Accountability

Even experienced pilots train regularly to keep their skills sharp. Leadership isn’t a destination—it’s a continuous learning process.

Nonprofits can reinforce leadership growth by:

Creating a community of accountability
Providing ongoing feedback & development opportunities
Encouraging a culture of learning where leaders at all levels grow together

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