Colonel Michelle A. Schmidt Leadership Analysis

Colonel Michelle A. Schmidt is the ideal leader whose legacy is rooted in her character, intellect, and presence. Her passion for and dedication to the Army and soldiers are contagious. As a military leader, intelligence officer, and genuine human being, she significantly affects those around her. She leads from the front like a true paratrooper, and never hesitates to do what is right for her team. Her subordinates revere her for her accomplishments, peers respect her for her intellect, and her superiors value her candid approach to seemingly convoluted issues.
Colonel Schmidt is an Army leader worth following to the ends of the earth because of her character. She takes time to lead and develop individuals within her circle of influence. When I was a young sergeant, Colonel Schmidt mentored me after I briefed our commanding general one morning. She saw potential in me and she took the time to invest in a junior noncommissioned officer (NCO) that day. As she drew three viable career maps for me, she explained the differences between all my options. She shared how she decided her career path years ago and what factors she weighed. She highly encouraged me to find my calling …show more content…
I hope it is one based on fortitude, competency, authenticity, and steadfast loyalty. I want other soldiers to know that they can have confidence in my fortitude and faith that I can accomplish any mission. I want people to remember how I affected my organization by becoming a master of the intelligence profession and a well-versed leader. When I come across soldiers I previously led, I hope they breathe a sigh of relief because they feel reassured by my presence. I want my seniors, peers, and subordinates to know that they will never meet anyone more genuine than I am. Colonel Schmidt is my role model. She ignited my passion for the Army and I am forever grateful for her influence on my life and my