The 12 descriptors listed here are not inclusive of all the qualities desired in employees in community corrections, but those that enjoy high priority during hiring and promotion processes: (1) Competent, trainable, willing to learn; (2) Clear and curious mind, imaginative; (3) Composed, self-assured, assertive; (4) Committed, loyal to the employer; (5) Compulsive, having the desire and ability to bring closure to an assignment, project or issue; (6) Competitive, with patience and perseverance; (7) Cooperative, able to negotiate compromise; (8) Considerate, sensitive to other people's problems; (9) Consistent; (10) Courageous; (11) Skilled in written and spoken communications; and (12) Ethical, possessing character and a moral sense. Probation officers possessing the qualities noted in this article, especially character, are in an excellent position to become the future leaders of the criminal justice system. Figure, references