DOD seeks leadership program candidates Published May 17, 2013 By Debbie Gildea Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) -- Department of Defense officials are seeking active duty Air Force majors and major-selects for the academic year 2013-2014 Executive Leadership Development Program, Air Force Personnel Center officials said. Applications are due to AFPC by June 10. Program orientation is slated for August and the first event will be held in October, said Master Sgt. Teresa Dixon, the AFPC officer developmental education superintendent. "This program is designed specifically for highly motivated officers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership ability, commitment to public service and integrity, and who have an interest in moving into senior management positions," she said. Participants function in a simulated environment where they focus on real-life situations that involve short deadlines and require thoughtful decision-making, Dixon said. "Candidates must be receptive to a unique training methodology, able to assume responsibility for their own learning, and be able to conceptualize and analyze problems effectively," she said. The course requires intense self-discipline and self-study, she explained. Military members remain in their current assignments throughout the program, with the exception of 95 days that are spent in training, briefings and trips to learning environments. Because participation is not associated with a permanent change of station, those selected will not incur an additional active duty service commitment. In addition to grade requirements, applicants must have completed Squadron Officer School and intermediate developmental education, and must have successfully commanded a flight or higher level organization. For complete application instructions, go to the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil and enter "PSDM 13-43" in the search window. The member's home unit is responsible for travel and per diem costs, so applications must include a recommendation statement from the first colonel or equivalent in the chain of command acknowledging awareness of that fact. For more information about developmental opportunities and other personnel issues, visit the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil.