Competency development for nurse executives: Meeting the challenge

The successful nurse executive has a comprehensive list of competencies that develop over time. To accelerate the learning curve for the aspiring nurse executive, identification of a developmental pathway is an effective approach to enhance success. More studies are needed to validate the top priorities for this pathway, but this study begins to challenge our thinking. Further dialogue and collaboration between nurse leaders from organizations such as AONE and the Council on Graduate Education for Administration in Nursing are needed to identify future needs for nurse executives and meet the growing demand at this level. The future holds many challenges for the nurse executive, but by understanding and filling the knowledge gaps, we can create strong leaders for tomorrow.