MCB CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – Civilian employees who play a vital role behind the scenes of Marine Corps Installations East-Marine Corps Base (MCIEAST-MCB) Camp Lejeune were recognized at the annual Civilian Leadership Development award luncheon at The Club at Paradise Point on MCB Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Nov. 14, 2024.

The Civilian Leadership Development program is available to civilian employees on Marine Corps installations who desire to improve their leadership competencies and skills, allowing them to develop the necessary abilities to take on future leadership roles within their career field. The annual luncheon is a celebration of those employees who participated in the program, demonstrating their desire and commitment to outstanding leadership of both service members and civilians working throughout MCB Camp Lejeune.

“The annual luncheon is a way to honor the employees and supervisors who took the time to work on their leadership skills,” said Dr. Kimberly Holmes, program manager, Employee Training and Development, MCIEAST-MCB Camp Lejeune.

The Civilian Leadership Development program enhances the leadership skills of civilian employees, thereby shaping them into leaders at their respective organizations. At the beginning of each fiscal year, civilian employees participate in the program by selecting leadership topics they wish to learn more about.

“They pick three areas, or competencies, which they want to learn more of, obtain the skills needed, and work all year on those three things,” Holmes added.

Participants also create an individual leadership development plan with the guidance of a mentor and attend training throughout the year centered on their goals. At the end of the year, they are recognized for successful completion of the program by the installation commander. This year’s luncheon recognized 115 individuals who excelled in leadership, mentorship, and problem-solving, directly contributing to the Corps’ mission.

Aside from the awards ceremony, the luncheon serves as an opportunity for civilian employees to share insight into the program for prospective applicants, including the chance to network and share success stories.

“This was a great opportunity to grab some skill sets you can take on with you to help yourself, your family members, your community, and the organization you’re in,” said Tina Outlaw-Waters, a participant and civilian personnel director for Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools on Camp Johnson. Outlaw-Waters participated in the program to work on post-graduate education. “I found in these programs you’re thinking about learning new concepts and how to intertwine it with what you do on a daily basis.”

The Civilian Leadership Development program offers an opportunity for civilian employees on Camp Lejeune to further their career while also contributing to their organization by preparing for increased leadership roles. Holmes encourages those interested to reach out and learn more about what is available.

“It offers opportunities not available to anyone [outside the program],” said Holmes. “We provide certain training only available to those enrolled in the program. The luncheon is a way to heighten awareness for civilian leadership development opportunities.”

Those interested in the Civilian Leadership Development program may contact Employee Training and Development, at (910) 451-4793.