COMDTINST 5351.3B — Leadership Development Framework

COMDTINST 5351.3B governs the Coast Guard Leadership Development Framework and expected leadership knowledge, skills, and abilities.

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  • Publication number: COMDTINST 5351.3B
  • Title: LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK
  • Date: 6/6/2025
  • Proponent: CG-DCMS-DPR

View COMDTINST 5351.3B on armypubs.army.mil


The publication presents 28 leadership competencies combining management and leadership skills across career stages and levels of responsibility. It requires specified Coast Guard leaders to comply with its policies and identifies training, development, and competency expectations.

Applies to: The Framework will be used as a reference for the basis of leadership training and development for all military members of the Coast Guard workforce and throughout all levels of responsibility.

Topics covered

  • Leadership competencies
  • Leader development
  • Management and leadership skills
  • Career-stage expectations
  • Leadership training
  • Coast Guard leadership philosophy

Questions and answers

What does COMDTINST 5351.3B define for Coast Guard leaders?

To define and present the expected leadership knowledge, skills, and abilities at every stage of a member’s career to be an effective U.S. Coast Guard leader. (paragraph 1)

Which Coast Guard leaders must comply with COMDTINST 5351.3B?

All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chiefs of headquarter directorates must comply with the policies contained. (paragraph 2)

What is the definition of a leader in COMDTINST 5351.3B?

A leader is one who influences and inspires others toward a goal. (paragraph 1)

What is the difference between management and leadership in the framework?

When a leader uses tools and tactics that fall within the category of Management, they choose to influence others toward a goal, meaning they leverage external factors such as discipline, policy, or pay. (paragraph 2)

What training opportunities support the leadership competencies?

Informal training opportunities including on-the-job training, independent professional development, and mentorship, are critical ways that Coast Guard members learn and practice these competencies at all levels. (paragraph 3)

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