Institute for Advanced NCO Leadership

IamNCO, a Think Tank for the Noncommissioned Officer corps

Our United States Army Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) think tank IamNCO is a dynamic concept dedicated to the professional development, empowerment, and advocacy of NCOs. We intend to conduct rigorous research, provide expert analysis, and offer policy recommendations to shape the future for enlisted leaders. Through academic study, discourse, knowledge sharing, and innovation, we will strive to strengthen the NCO corps by ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions are recognized. Join us in shaping the future for NCOs and by making a lasting impact on our success. We need your help and support because a few volunteers cannot do this alone. So, what do we exist for? Read on.

Figure 1. IamNCO Research and Policy Institute Capability Statement

What we are all About

As the United States Army Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) think tank, IamNCO can serve several valuable functions. Here are some we believe we can fulfill on behalf of enlisted leaders:

1. Professional Development: An NCO think tank can focus on enhancing the professional development of NCOs within the Army now, other services and other nations eventually. We can develop or recommend programs, resources, and initiatives to support the growth, education, and training of NCOs, ensuring enlisted men and women possess the necessary skills, knowledge and resources to excel in their roles.

2. Policy Analysis and Recommendations: The think tank can conduct research and analysis on policies affecting NCOs and provide recommendations to Army leaders and influencers to improve enlisted working conditions, career progression, compensation, and overall welfare. We can offer insights to inform the development of Army policies that impact NCOs directly.

3. Mentorship and Guidance: An NCO think tank can establish mentorship programs, like Core Compass, and develop platforms where experienced NCOs can provide guidance, advice, and support to junior NCOs. This function would facilitate knowledge sharing, leadership development, and the cultivation of strong, professional relationships within the NCO corps.

4. Best Practices Sharing: The think tank can serve as a central point for archiving and sharing best practices and lessons learned among NCOs. We could collect and disseminate successful strategies, tactics, and techniques used by NCOs across different units and areas of expertise. This would foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.

5. External voice of the NCO Corps: The think tank can represent the collective voice of NCOs within the Army from outside the boundaries of the institution. We can facilitate open dialogue between NCOs and higher-ranking officers, as well as engage with policymakers and decision-makers to ensure NCO perspectives are considered in policy formulation and decision-making processes.

6. Research and Innovation: The think tank can conduct research on emerging challenges, trends, and technologies relevant to the NCO corps. We can explore innovative approaches, tools, and methods that can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of NCOs in their duties. This function would contribute to the Army's ability to adapt and respond to evolving operational requirements.

7. Advocacy and Recognition: The think tank can advocate for the recognition and appreciation of the vital role NCOs play in the Army. We can raise awareness of NCO contributions, highlight their achievements, and advocate for appropriate recognition and rewards for their service.

Many of these functions are already done within the constraints of the instution, and within the boundaries of the the oath of enlistment, the NCO Creed, DoD and Army policy, the NCO Support Channel and the Chain of Command, and the Constitution. Without a doubt the NCO Corps is loyal to the officers and the Commander in Chief they serve, IamNCO is loyal specifically to the NCO Corps.

NCOs, will you join us in this mission?

CSM (Ret.) Daniel K. Elder

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