Optimizing the Contributions of Air Force Civilian STEM Workforce
Abstract
The U.S. Air Forces ability to accomplish national security goals relies heavily on research advances in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The current shortage of STEM professionals has a direct impact on how the Air Force is able to carry out its mission. Addressing the gap in the Air Forces civilian STEM workforce and optimizing the productivity of its existing civilian STEM employees falls squarely within the Air Forces responsibility. Because of concerns over the shortage of civilian STEM professionals, especially those with advanced degrees, Air Force leadership asked RAND Project AIR FORCE (PAF) to explore the existing academic and professional literature to gain insights into how organizations such as the Air Force should manage, support, and organize their current civilian STEM workers to best leverage their talents and thereby maximize performance. PAF engaged in an extensive survey of the relevant literature to answer the above question. First, we provided a brief overview of the differences between modern knowledge organizations, in contrast to traditional manufacturing or industrial organizations. Second, we described the characteristics of work that most appeal to STEM workers and drive their productivity. Third, we discussed human-capital functions that relate to the performance of STEM workers. Fourth, we discussed the changes in organizational structure most likely to foster STEM employees productivity and innovation. Finally, the last section of this report summarizes our findings and recommendations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1097635
Entities
People
- Amy G. Donohue
- Irina A. Chindea
- Rebecca Herman
- Samantha E. Dinicola
- Shirley M. Ross
Organizations
- RAND Corporation