Edwards Leadership Development Program

Mission

The Edwards Leadership Development Program (ELDP) at Cal Maritime transforms leadership training by seamlessly integrating experiential learning with academic coursework. Inspired by the Outward Bound and NOLS models, which emphasize personal growth through challenging group experiences and reflective learning, the ELDP offers a dynamic, hands-on approach to leadership development. Core leadership principles are reinformced throughout the academic curriculum, and woven into every aspect of our campus programming, ensuring that leadership is not just taught, but lived.

Focused on self-awareness, social awareness, professional growth, and character development, the ELDP equips cadets and students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive both personally and professionally. The ELDP supports a comprehensive co-curricular leadership experience through outdoor activities, workshops, seminars, guest speakers, etiquette dinners, and the Corps of Cadets leadership progression. It also enhances leadership training on the Training Ship Golden Bear during the Summer Sea Term and through international experiences, providing valuable leadership development opportunities.

Community Building

The ELDP fosters strong, supportive relationships within teams and the broader community, preparing cadets and students to lead with a shared sense of purpose and responsibility. Group activities and reflective learning experiences help participants build a supportive network that enhances their leadership journey.

Program Purpose and Goals

• Self-Awareness and Social Awareness: Cultivate self-awareness and social awareness through reflective and group activities.
• Experiential Learning: Emphasize leadership through practical application via the Maritime Outdoor Leadership Program and other hands-on experiences.
• Professional Development: Develop key workplace skills through career readiness and professional development opportunities, with a strong emphasis on etiquette training.
• Corps of Cadets Leadership: Develop leadership skills for cadets, preparing them for higher leadership positions and equipping them to be effective leaders throughout the entire campus community.
• Integrated Leadership and Problem-Solving: Weave leadership principles from the Cal Maritime's General Education curriculum into all aspects of campus life, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. This integration creates a baseline that all cadets and students can relate to and build upon.

Acknowledgment

Thanks to the generous support of Tom and Libby Edwards, the ELDP offers cadets and students a distinct leadership advantage. The program began in 2014 with their generous gift, combining maritime education with world-class leadership development.