Network centric operations and Naval Officers of the future : a first order analysis of desired knowledge, skills, abilities, and personality traits

Abstract

The world is changing and future naval leaders must change with it. This thesis examines the future political, social, economic, and technological environments the Navy faces to determine future officer characteristics. A standard interview protocol is used to record the views of senior naval leadership and senior DON civilians who are experts in future warfare concepts and/or Navy manpower. From these interviews, future warfare and labor market requirements are examined. Due to increased speed and lethality during network centric operations (NCO), future officers will need to be broadly educated leaders who possess good decision making skills and core values. Future labor market requirements will demand officers who are leaders in diversity and possess leadership styles that motivate future generations. Because of the caliber of individuals demanded by NCO, future officers will need to possess greater interpersonal and team building skills to be effective leaders. To maximize the human potential of future officers, a new human resource strategy must be forged, one characterized by an adaptive manpower system that is holistic in nature as well as forward looking.