franklin_m

Exactly. On a related note, it appears the privatization of ATC is picking up momentum. AMA should be terrified (justifiably). I could easily see the industry stakeholders that will be put in control of that pressuring for more defined restrictions on where "toys" can fly.

Hydro Junkie

But again, they all had leadership training BEFORE they could put on their E-4 stripes, normally referred to as "Petty Officer Indoc". When you met the qualifications needed to advance, you were REQUIRED to pass that class BEFORE you got to put on your "crow". I know of a guy that couldn't pass the course and was not advanced because of it. For the enlisted ranks, the Pentagon felt(apparently) that being able to lead others was a skill anyone above E-3 must have. Obviously, as one advanced though the ranks, they had more and more responsibility put on them. Therefore, by the time they made E-6 or E-7, being able to run a shop was not only expected, it was required. That said, some were much better at running a shop than others, due to personality, temperament and general organizational ability. Ironically, the best person I ever worked under was actually the worst to work with on the aircraft.