Leading the way back to the future

By Dr Evelyn Grahams

THE year is 2030. You have been projected into one of four possible futures and your task is to consider security challenges and effects on Air Force capabilities.

What are the issues facing our people, capability, values, operational performance, strategic direction, and governance?

This is the task facing the 2005 Leading Edge Team (LET) at a scenario workshop to be held in Canberra from November 14 to 16. Twenty four motivated members from leading aircraftman/woman to squadron leader, representing 17 specialisations and 11 bases, have been selected to attend.

Their task will be to engage in strategic thinking about our future Air Force, thereby contributing to Air Force’s understanding of future war-fighting responsibilities. Innovative presentations will stimulate the flow of ideas and thinking outside current assumptions. Professor Charles Newton, from ADFA, will facilitate the event.

The three-day workshop will culminate with a presentation of scenario outcomes to members of the Air Force Senior Leadership Team. Outcomes from the four scenarios will be compiled to inform policy and capability areas within Air Force Headquarters and Aerospace Development.

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