PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. -- COACHING • Show them, don’t just tell them! The coach is the one who understands the mission purpose and has the experience to avoid problems. The coach sees the true potential in a Guardian or Airman. Oftentimes it is a horizon a young troop cannot see in themselves.
As Space Operations Command celebrates the Year of the Company Grade Officer, Space Delta 6 conducted a professional development seminar at Peterson Space Force Base, Colo., April 18, 2025. The seminar emphasized coaching as a mission-critical leadership tool, empowering officers to lead with confidence, adaptability and purpose.
Framed as a “force multiplier,” coaching enhances the effectiveness of individuals and units by cultivating critical thinking, resilience and accountability at all levels. In SpOC's dynamic, high-stakes environment, coaching isn't just about developing technical skills—it's about building leaders who can carry the mission forward under pressure.
“We all need someone to focus on empowered action, to show us how it should be done, not the theory behind why we do something, and then to hold you accountable to that action or standards," said U.S. Space Force Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr., SpOC commander.
In today’s rapidly evolving operational landscape, where threats emerge in real-time and systems operate 24/7, coaching directly supports mission success. It equips officers with the tools to not just react—but to lead, decide, and thrive under challenging conditions.
“What I thought about coaching was they're going to tell me the answers. That's not what coaching is about,” said retired U.S. Space Force Gen. John W. Raymond, the first Chief of Space Operations. “Coaching is about helping you understand yourself, help you explore where you where you're struggling and why you may be struggling based on your personality.”
As the Space Force charts its future, coaching will play a defining role in shaping its leaders. It ensures that knowledge, values, and readiness are passed down—not just for today's operations, but for tomorrow’s challenges.
“You can be mentored by lots of people and I would encourage you to not just pick somebody that is a cookie cutter,” said Raymond. “Pick someone that doesn't look like you, someone who'll help you expand your leadership and your thought process, and pick multiple members.”