Fort Sill, Oklahoma — The leadership landscape at Fort Sill is evolving, with an increasing emphasis on technological adaptation and innovation. During the final session of Leadership Fort Sill’s seventh cohort on April 17, 2025, over 30 civilian professionals gathered to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into military leadership and workforce development.
The day was marked by interactive demonstrations, breakout discussions, and panels featuring both civilian and military experts. They shed light on how AI platforms such as Power BI, Advana, and CamoGPT are currently supporting Department of Defense operations and what opportunities they bring for leadership enhancement.
Fort Sill Deputy Garrison Commander Julia Sibilla emphasized that AI is a potent tool for skill enhancement. She stated, ‘AI can elevate a leader’s ability to communicate, create, and motivate others while saving time and energy.’ Sibilla noted the importance of inspiring confidence in these emerging technologies to ensure future leaders are enthusiastic and prepared to adapt.
Participants like Stacy Dudark, from Reynolds Army Health Clinic, found the training immediately beneficial. She shared, ‘The AI tools we learned about will make our team’s work more efficient, especially in locating service members and streamlining our operations.’ Dudark highlighted tools like Vantage and Power BI as instrumental in reducing workload and focusing more on the human element of leadership.
Insights from leadership panels reinforced the enduring importance of personal values and strategic thinking. Fort Sill Garrison Commander Col. Derek Baird and his brother, Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Baird, underscored principles such as discipline, holistic health, and selfless service. Their shared experiences demonstrated that effective leadership combines timeless virtues with technological savvy.
Maj. Gen. Phil Brooks of the Fires Center of Excellence reflected on leadership challenges and emphasized the need for resilience and ethical decision-making. He cited Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech to illustrate that true leadership involves stepping into uncertainty with confidence and integrity.
Experts involved in the program agree that AI is transforming the role of leaders across sectors. Kevin Stone from the Fires Center of Excellence remarked, ‘Leadership today isn’t just about managing people; it’s about recognizing patterns and seizing opportunities that AI facilitates.’
As the cohort prepares to graduate in May, the program’s goal remains clear: to develop well-rounded leaders capable of navigating a future where rapid technological change is the norm. Sibilla concluded, ‘Leadership Fort Sill continues to lead by example, showing how ongoing learning and adaptation are keys to success in an ever-changing world.’
