Space Operations Force Management -- Can We Meet the Challenge
Abstract
The space operations mission and career field have grown dramatically as the contribution of space systems to our national security steadily increases. The space operations specialty (AFSC-20XX) is currently supported via college graduates (accessions) with a technical or science degree and cross flows from other career areas with a technical background. However, as the analyses in this study indicate, we may not be able to meet outyear space operations manpower requirements. Space operations manpower shortfalls could be very analogous to the pilot shortfalls of today. Specific findings reveal a decreased overall target accession population, decreased production of technical graduates, reduced manning levels, and decreased retention. This is exacerbated by increased competition from civilian industry. Proposed recommendations include: (1) elimination of technical degree requirements, (2) revision of Undergraduate Space Training to emphasize operator tasks vice technical knowledge, (3) stabilization of 20XX accession quotas, (4) maintenance of flexibility mechanisms to meet unexpected growth, and (5) expansion of reserve component space operations positions. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for early recognition of this problem and immediate implementation of innovative solutions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA241153
Entities
People
- Bruce M. Roang
Organizations
- Air War College