Striving for Diversity Observations on Racial and Ethnic Talent in the Regular Army's Senior Officer Corps
Abstract:
One of the U.S. Army's top personnel goals, set forth in The Army People Strategy, issued in early fiscal year (FY) 2020, is to recruit and retain a force that reflects the diversity of the U.S. population. Achieving these aims means not only bringing a diverse group of individuals into the Army but also retaining and promoting them into leadership positions as their careers progress. To help accomplish these goals, the Army asked RAND Arroyo Center to analyze retention of racial and ethnic minorities in the Army to better understand how the diversity of the force changes as cohorts progress through the ranks. This research brief focuses on diversity and career progression of commissioned officers.