Recently, one of my mentors posed an interesting question to me: Is leader development different from leader training?

For the sake of this discussion, I would define “leader training” as job or branch-specific training: running a range/planning a live fire, convoy planning, properly integrating enablers, etc. “Leader development” would focus on more subjective leadership skills: learning effective time management techniques, understanding emotional intelligence, building effective teams, etc. Finally, tasks that may be difficult to categorize: learning how to counsel, writing effective evaluations, writing effective awards, etc.

Some potential questions: Is leader development and leader training different? Does it matter? Can you have an effective LPD program without both?