Australian industry is looking towards an exciting future, and this is particularly true of the diverse and varied defence industry. How leadership navigates the industry’s complex and changing needs will be one of the driving factors in the success of Australian Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) entering the defence industry supply chain, and ultimately the future expansion of the industry itself.
Contemporary Australian industry leaders need to be focused, creative and self-aware
This is now a given in all sectors; but leaders in the defence industry supply chain must also have an understanding of the culture and values that embody the Australian Defence Force. No matter how many years of experience, or how large or small the organisation, undertaking workforce development in the area is a wise move. Knowing how to position themselves and their organisation within the context of ADF and defence industry culture is the key to more productive engagement. It’s also the key to industry expansion.
SADILP
SADILP is an accredited defence industry-specific leadership program that offers a diploma or an advanced diploma in Leadership and Management as well as lifelong membership to the SADILP alumni. It’s valuable for business owners and people at any stage of their career – from emerging leaders finding their foot in the industry, to those more experienced wishing to enhance their skills. What sets it apart from other leadership programs is its industry slant and the blend of professional and personal development it offers. Oh, and it’s also a lot of fun.
What is involved?
The program runs for 8 months, and successful applicants attend monthly workshops, two residential field trips and three industry visits. Work includes three individual assignments as well as a group concept paper that is presented to a review panel before graduation.
Self-Awareness
Both leadership and character development are a part of lifelong learning, and this is not always addressed so thoroughly in other industry programs. SADILP aims to foster a higher level of self-awareness by transforming thinking and behaviours through the type of physical and mental challenges that drill into the ADF psyche and ethos. In taking up these challenges, the participants in the program are forced to step away from their comfort zone, become aware of what they are capable of and the values that drive them. They leave the program with more confidence in their abilities under pressure.
Self-Awareness
Both leadership and character development are a part of lifelong learning, and this is not always addressed so thoroughly in other industry programs. SADILP aims to foster a higher level of self-awareness by transforming thinking and behaviours through the type of physical and mental challenges that drill into the ADF psyche and ethos. In taking up these challenges, the participants in the program are forced to step away from their comfort zone, become aware of what they are capable of and the values that drive them. They leave the program with more confidence in their abilities under pressure.
Current thinking and challenging old assumptions
Inspiring guest speakers – leaders from defence and other industries, share their experiences and stories. Participants learn new and different perspectives and openly engage in discussion on current industry thinking and innovation. Old assumptions are challenged and existing knowledge is put under the microscope. The value of these sessions can’t be overrated, as leaders will need to be flexible and open in their thinking as the defence industry grows in ways we can only imagine.
Networking Opportunities
Participants in SADILP are a diverse mix of demographics, from all levels and a wide range of sectors within the defence industry. This connection is another strength of the program. The sharing of experience and ideas helps to build a broader knowledge of the sector. It opens the door to more effective communication and provides powerful networking opportunities.
SO much more than a diploma
SADILP participants come away from the 8-month program as better and more confident leaders with a clearer and more focused career perspective. Small and medium enterprise in the defence industry needs leaders with an understanding of where their organisation fits within the industry and the community. The industry needs leaders who are able to inspire their team to come along for the ride. SADILP nurtures this type of leader.
