LEADING FACTORS DETERMINING LATERAL TRANSFER SUCCESS

Abstract

This study examines the characteristics of officers applying to and being selected by lateral transfer boards using biannual redesignation data from November 2010 through November 2012. The lateral transfer board reviews approximately 500 applicants each year. The majority of the Restricted Line designators rely on lateral transfer boards as their primary means of accessing new officers, where the average applicant is an O-3, male, and is a surface warfare officer (1110). Although the applicants are moderately different at each board, the aggregate selection rate is 40 percent. A probit analysis suggests that officers who are most likely to be successful at redesignating are Hispanic and O-4, as well as Limited Duty Officers. The regression results indicate that there is no gender difference in selection but senior pay grades are selected at a higher rate, where Information Professional and Foreign Area Officer communities currently have the greatest demand for officers at the lateral transfer boards. Additionally, Surface Warfare provides the greatest supply of applicants on average, but holding all else equal, an officer is less likely to be selected if he or she applies as a surface warfare officer.