🌊🚤 A couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to embark on a swiftwater rescue training expedition with my colleagues from NYPD ESU and FEMA NY Task Force 1. Nestled along the Colorado River near Blythe, California, on the CA-NV border, we honed our skills as swiftwater rescue boat operators.
💡 This experience underscored the importance of leaders being actively involved in training exercises relevant to their team's duties. While leaders may not need to excel in every task, understanding the intricacies of what their team members do is paramount for effective leadership.
👥 Our training cohort comprised detectives, sergeants, lieutenants, and even a captain from NYPD ESU. Despite varying ranks, we collectively embraced the ethos of teamwork and skill-building. We recognized the value of stepping into different roles, even if it meant assuming tasks traditionally associated with frontline operators. That is me on the tiller, and I believe Michael Granahan throwing the rescue line.
👍 During the training, we established what we fondly dubbed "the Boss Boat" (AKA RB1). This initiative allowed leaders to rotate through different positions, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges and responsibilities faced by their team members. It was an eye-opening experience for both leaders and frontline operators alike.
🔥 Swiftwater rescue training, especially in scorching temperatures exceeding 116 degrees Fahrenheit, injected a healthy dose of stress into our learning environment. However, it also provided invaluable lessons in teamwork, adaptability, and decision-making under pressure.
📣 To all leaders and team members alike, I urge you to seize every opportunity to train and learn together. Whether it's navigating swiftwater currents or managing a dynamic team, there's immense value in shared experiences and mutual understanding.
🚀 Let's continue to push the boundaries of our capabilities and foster a culture of continuous improvement. After all, in the face of adversity, it's our collective training and preparedness that ensure success.
#Leadership #Teamwork #Training #SwiftwaterRescue #NYPDESU #FEMA #ContinuousImprovement #TeamBuilding #USAR #urbansearchandrescue #rescuetraining #boats #NYPD #FDNY #EMS
Associate Safety Coordinator at Southland Industries👷♀️| Recent Arizona State University Graduate
1moCongratulations Rodney! Well deserved