AU commander speaks to ROTC cadets Published June 29, 2015 By Senior Airman William J. Blankenship 42nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Lt. Gen. Steven Kwast, Air University commander, spoke to Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets at Boyd Auditorium here, June 15. Kwast shared his thoughts on how to be an effective leader and how to be prepared for what lies ahead during the cadets' Air Force career. "A team of innovative, focused people is unbeatable," said Kwast. "We must continue to innovate in order to stay ahead of our adversaries." Kwast told the group that there are four pillars of character that will help them in their journey to being winners and leaders. He said that each pillar--humility, nobility, courage, compassion--has a direct connection to success. "If you invest in these qualities of character, our team ... this nation ... will win," said Kwast. "You will out-innovate and out-create any other potential adversary long before shots are fired. America will be the force for peace and prosperity for the next 100 years. Every culture understands these four things. Invest in these and you will be strong, undefeated and prepared for the moment of crisis that may be unexpected." Kwast reminded the future Air Force members that their success relies on their ability to adapt and overcome. "Be prepared for the unexpected," he said. "When the unexpected happens, find a way to win. In our business, we can't lose." Cadets attend ROTC summer field training at Maxwell as part of their commissioning program between their sophomore and junior years of college. The course is designed to evaluate cadets' leadership potential and discipline and their readiness to enter into the Professional Officer Course the following year, a requirement before receiving a commission from ROTC.