Selected Maintenance Skills in the US Army Reserve - Why Shortfalls Exist and What Actions Have Been Taken to Correct Them.
Abstract
During 1986 one-third of the USAR's enlisted force chose to leave their unit assignment. This essay examines the effect of high attrition on 12 maintenance specialties and nine maintenance units of the Army Reserve. Several conclusions emerge from the data. First, maintenance units lag behind other USAR units in their ability to recruit. While the USAR overall has nearly 100% of its peacetime authorization, the nine units examined average about 90% of authorized strength. The fill rate for hard-skill specialties are even lower, running between 70% and 80%. More importantly, only about two-third of the individuals serving in these maintenance specialties are MOS qualified. Consequently, only about one-half of the hard-skill positions have a qualified occupant, despite the fact that the nine units show an overall qualification rate of about 70%. Clearly, current levels of attrition are having a serious impact on MOS qualification rates. What can be done? Reserve commanders must address the root causes of the problem: poor training, delays in receiving pay, transportation difficulties, and job conflicts. How can the Active Component help? TRADOC and FORSCOM have important programs underway tom improve MOS qualification including more effective use of Reserve Forces schools and the addition of regional training centers. In its concluding section the essay reviews these and other initiatives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 23, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA183760
Entities
People
- Charles D. Benson
Organizations
- United States Army War College