IamNCO Agenda, our top five Initiatives
NCO Policy and Research Institute
The U.S. Army Sniper Course students conduct the ghillie wash exercise on Aug. 19, 2024, at Fort Moore, Georgia. The ghillie wash is designed to test the strength and durability of the suits as well as weather them. Sniper School students use sand, water, and mud, all to perfect one of their most essential tools: their camouflage. (U.S. Army photo by Daniel Marble)
Late last year, the IamNCO team took a poll using the 22 items you recommended for our initial focus area; I wanted you to see the results. First, the top 5 presented are pretty good, even though we had a sample size of only 16. Not a bad first round. I know there were recommendations to keep all 22 visible, which we can do. Are they perfect, no. But as the first top five, they are as good as any for our starting point going into the new year.
Top Five Initiatives (of 22 recommendations)
Recommend the Army develop a structured mentorship program for NCOs
Expand the role of NCOLCoE at Bliss as the NCO Corps proponent and as a direct report to the Office of the Sergeant Major of the Army.
Form an independent study to investigate the NCO Support Channel's current and future roles and responsibilities.
Determine how to streamline administrative burdens.
Advocacy for NCO concerns
The Institute for Advanced Noncommissioned Leadership (IamNCO) aspires to be at the forefront of training, research, and leadership development for the NCO corps, but we cannot do it alone. Our mission is rooted in strengthening the backbone of the military—its noncommissioned officers—through championing cutting-edge and in-depth research that shapes the future of enlisted leadership. However, to fully realize this vision, we need the support of both currently serving and veteran NCOs who understand the demands of military leadership firsthand.
What you can do
IamNCO is more than just an organization; it is a movement dedicated to advancing the art and science of noncommissioned leadership. We aim to conduct research that delves into the evolving role of NCOs in modern warfare, leadership theory, and operational effectiveness. By studying past successes and challenges, we develop new strategies and best practices that can be applied to today’s forces. But research alone is not enough—we must translate knowledge into action through ensure our policies support comprehensive training and the ht types of professional military education and development programs that empower the next generation of leaders.
Our five priorities above are our first charter; they are opportunities for us to externally influence how to enhance the leadership capabilities of NCOs. For currently serving NCOs, by helping us, it becomes an opportunity to shape the force from within, ensuring that the next wave of leaders is prepared for the demands of their roles. For veterans, it’s a chance to give back, to pass down hard-earned lessons, and to cement a legacy of excellence in NCO leadership. Your knowledge, experience, and insight are invaluable to our mission.
By joining forces with IamNCO, you can play a direct role in refining training methodologies, contributing to groundbreaking research, and mentoring the leaders of tomorrow. Our vision is to create an advanced, well-equipped NCO corps ready for any challenge, but we can only do it with your help. Whether you lend your expertise to a research project, assist in training development, or serve as a mentor, your involvement will make a lasting impact.
The strength of IamNCO lies in the collective experience of the NCO community. We invite all noncommissioned past and present officers to join us in this mission. Together, we can ensure that the knowledge, leadership, and professionalism that define the NCO corps continue to grow, evolve, and inspire future generations.
Daniel K. Elder, Chair