1 Recruit Training Unit (1RTU) is strengthening its commitment to developing the next generation of Air Force aviators with the launch of an enhanced instructor mentoring program and logbook. The initiative is designed to elevate instructional capability and set newly posted instructors up for success from day one.
The program provides structured and guided support that allows instructors to build skills progressively throughout their first year. It ensures timely, relevant feedback while helping new instructors transition smoothly into the demands of the role.
At the forefront of this work is Pilot Officer Kristina Trudgeon, whose passion for education and instructional excellence has shaped her career.
Having excelled as a military skills instructor (MSI), she found inspiration in guiding new recruits and fostering their development, prompting her to pursue an education degree. This foundation supported her commissioning as a training systems officer, enabling her to blend learning theory with military training practice.
"I created this program because preparing our MSIs well has a direct impact on the quality of training we deliver," Pilot Officer Trudgeon said.
"My goal was to build something that genuinely supports instructors, lifts capability and ultimately benefits every recruit who trains at 1 Recruit Training Unit."
'The effects of this will be felt much further than just 1 Recruit Training Unit.'
Her vision for the mentoring program and task-based logbook focuses on creating a developmental system that supports both mentors and mentees. Experienced MSI and Security Force members play a key role in guiding, coaching and modelling best practice.
The structured task book ensures interactions are purposeful, consistent and aligned with unit training objectives. The program targets two critical areas: building confidence in delivering a wide range of lessons, and improving the ability to give and receive constructive feedback. Strengthening these skills directly enhances the quality of every recruit completing the nine-week IMT.
Commanding Officer 1RTU Wing Commander Jodie Mason believes the program provides a clear roadmap to success for newly posted MSIs and Security Force staff as they navigate their first year in the role.
"I could not be prouder of the incredible work Kristina has done in putting this logbook together," Wing Commander Mason said.
"Our staff have embraced the program. Its importance cannot be understated. You get what you set up and this program ensures that new personnel have a structured training aide and supportive mentors to guide them during their formative period.
"The effects of this will be felt much further than just 1 Recruit Training Unit. Our unit has the privilege and responsibility in training all MSIs for Air Force, including those who then post to Officer Training School, the Australian Defence Force Academy and other training establishments."
'I created this program because preparing our MSIs well has a direct impact on the quality of training we deliver.'
Wing Commander Mason said that if Defence wants excellent recruits then we must give them outstanding instructors, and it's a program like Pilot Officer Trudgeon's that ensures the team have the tools and support needed to thrive in their roles.
Drawing on the experience of second and third year MSIs, Security Force staff and the Training Development and Standards section, 1RTU invested heavily in strengthening instructor mastery.
The mentoring program will be trialled in 2026 - with expansion planned for 2027 - positioning 1RTU at the forefront of instructional development across Air Force training units.
With recruit development at its core, the program ensures instructors feel confident, competent and prepared to deliver the extensive suite of lessons required during initial military training.
