In April of 2018 the Marine Corps first female infantry leader deployed to Australia in support of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin. Like every male infantry leader before her, to accomplish the mission, a solid leadership foundation is critical for success. Today, anyone with the motivation and will to give the time and effort, can become an effective leader in any discipline.

"It’s just a matter of how bad you want it and the ability to influence the people around you,” explained U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Tonie Williams, a logistics officer with Assault Amphibian Schools Battalion, Training and Education Command.

Leadership is based around dedication, respect and trust. As a leader of more than five years, Williams believes in certain skills that are necessary to lead effectively and has implemented a program focused on educating female Marine leaders about the intricacies of leadership.

Williams started the Women’s Mentorship Program in 2018 with the help of Staff Sgt. Molly Koman, a supply platoon sergeant with 3rd Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division. Koman is a student of nutrition, and certified cross fit trainer who participates regularly in mentorship activities geared towards making women physically and mentally strong in the military and police forces. When Williams approached Koman with the idea to begin the Women’s Mentorship Program, Koman was enthusiastic to help.

The goal of the Women’s Mentorship Program is to build both mental and physical strength. Williams and Koman seek to instill the confidence to lead for all attendees and assist in allowing each to recognize both self-faults and self-greatness.

“[Leaders have to] work on the inside so [they] can be better on the outside,” said Williams.

“You see the change all around you from the people you’ve influenced; those people go on to influence others and impact the world around them,” Koman said.

During their time in the Corps, Williams and Koman have learned that leaders need mentors and both have found mentors who have supported and guided them throughout their careers. U. S. Marine Corps Col. Daniel Yaroslaski, commanding officer, 3rd Amphibious Assault Battalion, 1st Marine Division, is Williams’ mentor. Williams said

“It’s nice to have someone in your corner who wants you to succeed,” said Williams appreciatively.

Koman learned that adversity is not always caused by outside factors, but can be found within oneself.

“There’s plenty of adversities I’ve faced as a female in the military, but none of them compare to the adversity that I faced within myself,” admitted Koman.