A former senior Air Force aviator has crossed into the officers’ ranks after 37 years enlisted, graduating from the Initial Officer Training Course at RNZAF Base Woodbourne and collecting two of the course’s top honours.

Flight Lieutenant Williams was awarded the Robinson Memorial Trophy, chosen by peers as the graduate who displayed the greatest leadership, and the Karl Dobson Memorial Trophy for exemplifying teamwork, sportsmanship and determination while maintaining a high level of fitness.

Originally from Picton and more recently based in Auckland, Williams said returning to field training and core military skills had been a highlight. “The best part has been being back within teams and doing my best for the success of others,” he said.

He noted the progress of direct-entry officers on the course, some handling weapons for the first time and learning military processes and jargon. “Being accepted by the team as an officer cadet, rather than who I was in my enlisted career, was a nice moment,” he said.

Williams said he is looking forward to contributing in a different way to his Air Force whanau, focusing on building high-performing teams and sharing lessons from his career. A key takeaway from the final leadership exercise was enabling others to learn. “The ability to empower through delegation and responsibilities as a leader was great, but just as satisfying has been the ability to work hard for someone else and see how your positive attitude can impact others and contribute to mission success.”

He encouraged prospective recruits not to be put off by “what ifs,” adding that a day-by-day approach through tough patches builds confidence. He also stressed the importance of work-life balance and said he looks forward to more time with family as he heads to Whenuapai for the next phase of his career as an Operational Support Officer.