Leadership Development in the Ecuadorian Military: Conversations with Members of Elite Units

Abstract

Militaries around the world are studying leadership and consider that leadership training is giving them an advantage both on and off the battlefield. As the first ever research into leadership within the Ecuadorian military, the intent of the present study was to have military personnel explore their personal leadership and discuss individual and institutional ways to increase capacity. Empirical data was collected from men in the Anti-terrorism Special Forces and Intelligence Units of the Ecuadorian Army and from the Peacekeeping School which has military personnel from all three arms of the military, army, navy and air force. In addition, action research in the form of an Interview Matrix Activity and World Café were conducted with the Anti-terrorism Special Forces Unit. Research results were identified. Eight recommendations emerged from these findings that may assist the Ecuadorian military in taking steps to implement foundational leadership training.