1. Based on the skills model, how would you assess Lt. Col. John Adams's ability to meet the challenges of the base administration position?
2. How would you assess his ability to meet the additional tasks he faced regarding the conversion of the base?
3. If you were to coach Adams on how he could improve his leadership, what would you tell him?
Lt. Adams is a successful engineer in the Air Force who has been recognized for his accomplishments. He recently led small teams successfully and was promoted to lieutenant colonel earlier than his peers. About 6 months ago, he was given a new position, outside of engineering, where he served as commanding officer of administration in an airbase with over 5,000 personnel. He was the senior human resources officer in this new position.
About 6 months ago, the government mandated significant reductions and the closures of a number of bases. Base X was being closed as an airbase and assigned to the Army. Adams was tasked with overseeing much of this transition, including relocations, staff reductions, and voluntary retirement.
While Adams has many individual attributes that contribute to successful leadership, his lack of career experience in human resources contributed to diminished skill competency. He lacked effective problem-solving skills, social judgment, and knowledge, and appears to have missed the "bigger picture."