Unity in Struggle: The Debate between Integration and Assimilation, and the Dilemma of Othering
In a bid to attract and retain top talent, Generation Z prioritizes personal well-being, work-life balance, and diversity when choosing where to work. This trend is particularly relevant for the Department of Defense (DoD), which faces a significant challenge in enabling technological dominance due to a talent deficit. In 2023, only one service, the Marine Corps, is expected to meet its recruiting goals.
The past twenty years of combat supported by DoD civilians have reaffirmed the necessity of a dual civilian/military national defense workforce. However, integrating civilians within military culture, traditions, and organizational structures remains a challenge for the DoD. A loss of recruitment for civilians or military due to "othering" creates a national security dilemma.
To address this issue, a multifaceted approach is required. Here are some strategies to enhance civilian integration and foster inclusivity:
## Strategies for Civilian Integration
### Cultural Awareness and Training
Implementing joint training programs that bring together military and civilian personnel can enhance mutual understanding and respect. This includes cultural sensitivity training to address stereotypes and biases. Cross-functional teams that include both military and civilian members can foster a sense of unity and shared goals.
### Clear Communication Channels
Establishing regular forums for military and civilian personnel to voice their concerns and ideas ensures that all voices are heard and valued.
### Inclusive Policies and Practices
Ensuring that civilian contractors and employees receive comparable support and benefits as military personnel is crucial. Developing and enforcing robust anti-discrimination policies is also essential to prevent "othering" and ensure equal treatment for all personnel.
### Community Engagement
Organizing community-based programs that allow military and civilian personnel to engage with local populations can promote mutual understanding and respect.
### Leadership Commitment
Leaders must set a clear example by promoting inclusivity and addressing any instances of "othering" or discrimination within their ranks.
## Addressing "Othering"
### Education and Awareness
Providing regular workshops on recognizing and addressing biases and stereotypes that lead to "othering" is essential. Educating personnel on the importance of cultural diversity and the value of contributions from all team members is also crucial.
### Policies and Procedures
Establishing accessible channels for reporting instances of "othering" or discrimination ensures confidentiality and action on reported incidents.
### Collaboration Frameworks
Implementing structured models for civil-military interaction that emphasize mutual respect, open communication, and shared goals is key.
By implementing these strategies, DoD organizations can create a more inclusive environment where both military and civilian personnel feel valued and respected. The recommended shift is not organizational or policy-oriented, but cognitive, focusing on considering civilians as part of the in-group.
Rapid advances in technology have increased the need for civilians who provide technical skills in fields such as space, cyber, medical, and logistics. The DoD employs approximately 890,000 civilians, making it the fourth largest employer of civilians in the world. However, a 2021 study found that many Army civilians felt ignored during large gatherings focused on military issues and members.
The future workforce appears increasingly immune to performative acts, watching leaders' actions rather than listening to their words. Othering, or an in-group/out-group dynamic based on specific characteristics, is a less discussed reason for civilian workforce integration failure within military formations. The vocal animosity from some military members towards DoD civilians can create a toxic and sometimes hostile working environment.
The 2022 Defense Business Board report found that "civilian development is not seen as a priority within the DoD culture." The military needs to shift the mindset on what it means to integrate civilians into military organizations. The lack of trust between military leaders and civilians can transform skepticism into dysfunction.
DoD will likely need to expand the civilian workforce in response to declining recruitment, particularly within key technical positions. By addressing "othering" and fostering inclusivity, the DoD can attract and retain the best civilian talent, ensuring its technological dominance in the years to come.
- The necessity of a dual civilian/military national defense workforce, as demonstrated by the past two decades of combat, highlights the need for better civil-military relations within the Department of Defense (DoD).
- To strengthen civil-military relations, strategies such as cultural awareness and training, clear communication channels, inclusive policies and practices, community engagement, and leadership commitment should be implemented.
- Education and awareness programs that help recognize and address biases leading to "othering" and stereotypes can bridge the divide between military and civilian personnel.
- Establishing policies and procedures for reporting instances of "othering" or discrimination, coupled with collaboration frameworks that stress mutual respect, open communication, and shared goals can foster a more inclusive environment.
- As technology rapidly advances, the demand for civilians with technical skills in fields like space, cyber, medical, and logistics will increase. To maintain technological dominance, the DoD must attract and retain the best civilian talent, addressing "othering" and fostering inclusivity as key strategies.
- With the rising importance of personal well-being, work-life balance, and diversity among Generation Z, the DoD must focus on creating a more accepting and inclusive environment if it wants to meet its recruiting goals and stay competitive in the general news, sports, and education-and-self-development landscape.
