Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM): Mandating an Education Quota in the USAF Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Officer Corps

Abstract

This paper analyzes literature pertaining to USAFs Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) professionals and the connection with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. Also, the research delves into USAF cyberspace structure, forces and risks. The focus is gleaned from respected sources and DoD and USAF Directives, Guidance and Doctrine referencing cyber, ISR, STEM and education. Accordingly, this paper explores the topics of USAFs goals; current response and possible way ahead to grow a STEM educated ISR professionals in several steps. The first is to summarize the current operating environment within cyberspace. The second is to define how the US Government and DoD are emphasizing STEM education. The third is to interpret the USAF cyberspace force structure. The fourth is to explain the Air Forces approach to STEM. The fifth will quickly cover the risks facing the Air Force. The six proposes a solution and drawbacks. The seventh and final section will summarize the research and provide recommendations for further research.Who should the USAF target and then further develop as Cyber ISR professionals? For cyberspace, an ever increasing number of Airmen must have the proper background, education and training anchored in STEM to be agile, innovative and successful. To grow a dynamic workforce and meet the ever growing challenges within cyberspace, the USAF must set a quota for STEM educated Airmen and steadily increase it for accessions and cross-flows into the Intelligence (14N) career field. In light of lower manning and budgets, the USAF must recruit and retain 14Ns with STEM degrees today to succeed in the future. By immediately instituting a twenty-percent quota for STEM education as a prerequisite for the 14N career field, the USAF will meet the current percentage of 14Ns working in positions directly supporting or supported by cyber operations and be better positioned for future success.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 2013
Accession Number
AD1022989

Entities

People

  • Matthew P. Bruno

Organizations

  • Air Command and Staff College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Cyber
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Personnel
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Cyberspace
  • Cyberspace Operations
  • Department Of Defense
  • Information Operations
  • Law
  • Military Organizations
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Students
  • Surveillance
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • STEM Education
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Cyber