In a world that is becoming increasingly divided and polarized, the need for strong and capable leaders has never been greater. This is especially true for the younger generation, who will bear the responsibility of shaping the future of our country. During the inaugural Leadership Heights Speaker Series at the 2023 National Jamboree, Brad Tilden, the former CEO of Alaska Airlines, shared his own personal journey and how Scouting played a crucial role in his success. His story serves as an inspiration for all young individuals who aspire to become leaders.

Scouting the Path to CEO

Brad Tilden grew up in a large family, where he learned the values of hard work and perseverance from a young age. As a third child in a family of six kids, he never imagined that he would one day become the CEO of a major airline. However, his love for Scouting and the lessons he learned from it set him on a path towards success.

From a young age, Brad was drawn to the adventures and camaraderie of Scouting. He longed to swim, cook his own food, use an axe and a knife, and engage in all the exciting activities that Scouting had to offer. Little did he know that these experiences would shape not only his character but also his future career.

Brad’s journey in Scouting began as a Cub Scout and continued through his teenage years as a Boy Scout. He learned valuable skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, which would prove invaluable in his later life. While he may not have fully appreciated it at the time, Brad now recognizes the profound impact that Scouting had on his personal and professional development.

Leadership Lessons from Scouting

One of the most significant lessons Brad learned from Scouting was the importance of getting along with others and finding solutions to problems. In a world where adults seem to be constantly at odds with one another, Scouting taught him the skills needed to bridge divides and work towards common goals. Brad firmly believes that these skills will be vital for future leaders in bringing about positive change in our society.

As Brad embarked on his career at Alaska Airlines, he found that the challenges he faced were not technical or financial in nature, but rather centered around people. He realized that the ability to build strong relationships, make tough decisions, and inspire others was crucial for success in any leadership role. The principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, which he had recited without much thought during his Scouting years, suddenly took on newfound significance in his professional life.

Throughout his career, Brad faced numerous challenges, both big and small. From deciding whether to keep or fire a leader who had behaved unethically to choosing between a candidate with impressive technical skills or one who embodied the values of Scouting, he was often faced with difficult choices. However, he always strived to make decisions that aligned with the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. This unwavering commitment to integrity and values allowed him to navigate through the complexities of the corporate world with grace and wisdom.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

Brad Tilden’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of Scouting in shaping future leaders. As young individuals, you have the opportunity to be the change-makers of tomorrow. You have the power to build bridges, solve problems, and inspire others to come together for a common purpose.

Whether you aspire to be an airline executive like Brad or have other dreams and ambitions, the lessons learned from Scouting are applicable in any field or profession. The key is to believe in yourself, persevere in the face of challenges, and always strive to do what is right.

As you continue your Scouting journey, remember that you are part of a community that supports and believes in you. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, both individually and as a team. And most importantly, never forget the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, as they will guide you towards becoming the leaders our country needs.