Which skills are primarily developed through mentorship in OCS?

Mentorship in Officer Candidate School (OCS) is designed to enhance candidates' interpersonal and leadership skills, which are essential for effective functioning as naval officers. This relationship typically involves experienced mentors guiding candidates through challenges and providing insights into navigating both personal and professional development.

Interpersonal skills are crucial because naval officers must work effectively within teams and build rapport with subordinates, peers, and superiors. Leadership skills are equally important, as candidates learn how to lead diverse groups, make strategic decisions, and inspire others to achieve common goals.

While technical skills, physical combat skills, and communication skills are certainly important in a military context, they are not the primary focus of mentorship in OCS. Technical and combat skills typically come through formal training and practice rather than mentorship alone. Likewise, while communication is a vital component of interpersonal skills, mentorship encompasses a broader spectrum of relational and leadership development that is crucial to the Navy's mission and the effectiveness of its officers.