What's involved in the US Naval Academy's leadership training?

I've heard leadership is a big focus at the US Naval Academy. Can anyone explain what kind of leadership training is provided and how it helps students in their military careers?

The United States Naval Academy places a large emphasis on leadership training as part of its broader mission to prepare midshipmen for their roles as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps. The training is a blend of practical, classroom-based, and experiential learning.

The leadership training begins from the very start with Plebe Summer, which includes rigorous physical and mental training designed to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork amongst recruits. This is the very first step in developing the leadership foundation for each incoming class.

The core curriculum during the academic years then includes leadership classes. For example, the "Leadership and Ethics" course is a Naval Academy-wide coordinated effort to reinforce the institution's mission to build morally, mentally, and physically strong leaders. This course discusses ethical theories, moral reasoning, military professionalism, the rules of engagement, and the responsibilities of leadership.

There's also an annual Leadership Conference held at the Naval Academy where midshipmen interact with accomplished leaders from the military, business, and government to discuss ethics and leadership.

Moreover, much of the leadership training is experiential. Many midshipmen take on leadership positions within the Brigade of Midshipmen under a student-run rank system, which provides practical leadership experiences and lessons.

All of these elements together prime the midshipmen to take on officer-level duties following graduation. Commissioned as officers, they're expected to lead in their roles within the Navy or Marine Corps. The Academy’s leadership development is designed with this ultimate goal in mind.