Leadership Pathways graduates first Airmen Published Sept. 20, 2013 By Donovan Jackson Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORC BASE AL -- Master Sgt. Jennifer Boyle, a Gunter Noncommissioned Officer Academy instructor, has become the first Maxwell-Gunter Airman to complete nine courses of Leadership Pathways, earning the "one-star" squadron certificate. Since its inception April 1, Leadership Pathways has provided an umbrella over classes provided by base helping agencies. These include the Airman and Family Readiness Center, the Maxwell Health and Wellness Center, chaplaincy and the sexual assault response coordinator. Some of the many courses provided by Leadership Pathways include healthy functioning, relationship-building skills and finance and conflict management. "I have been taking Leadership Pathways courses for a few reasons," Boyle said. "I wanted to gain as much knowledge possible on how to complete a resume in order to be competitive in the career market, learn how to productively communicate with my significant other when we are having a disagreement and help myself to better prepare for retirement." Since enrolling in the courses, Boyle said that she has really seen an improvement in her communication skills. "I have learned how to translate military dialogue so it can be better understood by civilians, more particularly on my resume," she said. "I have also learned simply how to better communicate and express ideas with others." Boyle has already enrolled in new Leadership Pathway courses in an effort to continue developing her skill set while also aiming for another certificate. 42nd Air Base Wing community support coordinator Latonya Lewis said that as overseer of Leadership Pathways, she is excited about Boyle's progress. "Master Sgt. Boyle is an example of a great leader that will be able to share the skills that she has learned through her courses with her Airmen, friends and family," Lewis said. "This is what I mean when I talk about filling your resilience bank. She is making deposits into her resilience account, so when she needs to make a withdrawal, she will have the skills." Lewis also said she is excited to see how strongly Leadership Pathways has been accepted throughout Maxwell-Gunter. The "one-star" squadron certificate is awarded to those who complete eight to 10 Leadership Pathways courses. A "two-star" group certificate is awarded after completing 13-15 classes, and a "three-star" wing certificate is awarded after the completion of 18-20 classes. Certificates maybe used as an entry on enlisted, officer and civilian performance reports and awards packages. For more information about Leadership Pathways or to enroll in a class, call Lewis at 953-9822 or Master Sgt. Jennifer Hellwig at 416-2900.