An Evaluation of the Current United States Air Force Enlisted Career Progression System and Force Structure.
Abstract
Enlisted career progression is directly linked to the composition of the force structure. Under the present career progression system, it is unlikely for a technician in the Air Force to remain a technician for a full career. Faced with the increasing sophistication of our technology and failure to retain technical expertise, a need exists to review current USAF enlisted force structure and career progression policies. This thesis examines and evaluates certain aspects of the enlisted career progression system. The basic concepts, goals, and objectives of the Total Objective Plan for Career Airman Progression (TOPCAP), pertaining to the personnel force, are examined and discussed. Several of the TOPCAP models and force targets are examined and compared to a statistical analysis of retention rates in several highly technical career fields. Several factors which may affect the enlisted force structure in the future are also discussed. By understanding how the system currently operates and what future projections are, alternatives may be found to satisfy the needs of the Air Force. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA103251
Entities
People
- Luis Suarez
- Ronald J. Chapin
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology