Abstract

This research investigates the applicability of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) leadership development (LD) to corporate organizational development (OD). Despite significant investment in LD, many corporate programs do not meet expectations, highlighting the need for effective models. The USMC LD approach, emphasizing personal and subordinate leadership skills development, mission accomplishment, and team welfare, presents a unique model for exploration. This study examines the integration of USMC leadership components-traits, principles, and core values-into corporate leadership roles and evaluates the perception of USMC veterans on their applicability in corporate settings. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys of 125 participants and ten qualitative interviews to capture a comprehensive view of the USMC LD's potential in corporate OD. The findings suggest that USMC LD is not only applicable but also potentially beneficial in enhancing corporate leadership practices, indicating a need for further exploration in this area.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Organizational change; Corporations--Leadership; United States--Marine Corps--Leadership; Veterans—United States

Date of Award

2024

School Affiliation

Graziadio Business School

Department/Program

Business

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Masters

Faculty Advisor

Christopher G. Worley

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