Optimizing the Navy Supply Corps 810 Program: Analysis and Recommendations

The Naval Supply Systems Command 810 program provides an opportunity for approximately eight Navy Supply Corps officers to attend a top-30 U.S. business school every year. Upon graduation, these officers obtain a 1301 subspecialty code and are expected to serve in leadership assignments where their educational experience is needed to influence strategy, innovation, and significant Department of Defense business decisions. Our research has identified a twofold problem facing what is considered the most expensive educational program within the Navy Civilian Institutions Office's portfolio costing nearly $100,000 per student per year. Firstly, between 2003-2019, only 5% of NAVSUP 810 graduates were billeted to a 1301-coded position within the first two assignments following completion of their degree. Secondly, the current set of 1301-coded billets for NAVSUP 810 graduates does not provide the best return on investment to the Navy. Data shows that the current inventory of 1301-coded assignments should be increased to meet the demand of graduating officers. Likewise, these positions must be located at prominent commands that provide the officer with the opportunity to impact strategy, innovation, and policy-making. Our team has provided several recommendations to improve billet optimization for this highly selective population of Navy Supply Corps officers.