Setting up instructors for success

An enhanced instructor mentoring program and logbook designed to elevate instructional capability is set to be launched by 1RTU.

The program provides structured and guided support that allows instructors to build skills progressively throughout their first year. It ensures timely, relevant feedback while helping new instructors transition smoothly into the demands of the role.

At the forefront of this work is PLTOFF Kristina Trudgeon, whose passion for education and instructional excellence has shaped her career.

A former military skills instructor (MSI), PLTOFF Trudgeon found inspiration in guiding new recruits and fostering their development, prompting her to pursue an education degree. This supported her commissioning as a training systems officer, enabling her to blend learning theory with military training practice.

“I created this program because preparing our MSIs well has a direct impact on the quality of training we deliver,” PLTOFF Trudgeon said.

“My goal was to build something that genuinely supports instructors, lifts capability and ultimately benefits every recruit who trains at 1 Recruit Training Unit.”

Her vision for the mentoring program and task-based logbook focuses on creating a developmental system that supports mentors and mentees. Experienced MSIs and Security Force members play a key role in guiding, coaching and modelling best practice.

The task book ensures interactions are purposeful, consistent and aligned with unit training objectives. The program targets building confidence in delivering a wide range of lessons, and improving the ability to give and receive constructive feedback.

CO 1RTU WGCDR Jodie Mason believes the program provides a clear roadmap to success for newly posted MSIs and Security Force staff as they navigate their first year in the role.

“I could not be prouder of the incredible work Kristina has done in putting this logbook together,” WGCDR Mason said.

“Our staff have embraced the program. Its importance cannot be understated. You get what you set up and this program ensures that new personnel have a structured training aide and supportive mentors to guide them during their formative period.

“The effects of this will be felt much further than just 1 Recruit Training Unit. Our unit has the privilege and responsibility in training all MSIs for Air Force, including those who then post to Officer Training School, the Australian Defence Force Academy and other training establishments.”

WGCDR Mason said for Defence to have excellent recruits they must have outstanding instructors, and a program like PLTOFF Trudgeon’s ensured the team had the tools and support they needed to thrive in their roles.

Drawing on the experience of second and third year MSIs, Security Force staff and the Training Development and Standards section, 1RTU invested heavily in strengthening instructor mastery.

The mentoring program will be trialled this year with expansion planned for 2027.