Bythewood challenges future leaders to own problems, empower teams
Arnold Air Society, a service organization for future military officers, and Silver Wings, a civilian leadership development group, are two key programs affiliated with the Air and Space Forces Association. As sister organizations, they work in tandem to develop the next generation of leaders while educating the community and advocating for air and space power.
Bythewood spoke with approximately 50 cadet and civilian student leaders about leadership, technological change and the growing integration of space capabilities across the Joint Force.
Drawing on more than three decades of service, Bythewood told the students that one of the most important traits young leaders can develop is a willingness to take ownership of the problems placed before them.
“You’ve got an assignment, and you need to own that assignment and make sure that you are executing,” Bythewood said. “With that ownership comes the right to take risks to make that happen.”
Bythewood encouraged the students to work collaboratively and operate with initiative rather than waiting for permission at every step. He said leaders should establish clear boundaries, provide their people autonomy to execute and step in when teams encounter problems they cannot solve.
He also emphasized that leadership extends beyond mission execution. Reflecting on challenges he encountered throughout his career, Bythewood urged future leaders to know their teammates, recognize when someone is struggling and understand that supporting service members and their families directly contributes to combat readiness.
“We operate as a team, we operate as a family, and I challenge you guys to take that to heart early within your careers,” Bythewood said.
During a question-and-answer session, students asked Bythewood about emerging technology, contested space operations and the growing importance of space capabilities to the Joint Force. Bythewood challenged future Air and Space Force leaders to understand how military operations rely on space capabilities and how greater integration across services can strengthen combat effectiveness.
To learn more about the Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings and their mission to develop future leaders, visit the Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings website at https://www.aas-sw.org/.
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