Distinct characteristics, values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors are often associated with individuals from different generations. These differences arise from societal, cultural, technological, and economic factors that shape people’s experiences as they grow and develop. Generational differences may impact how SOF lead, follow, recruit, retain, and train. How do different generations approach leadership roles within organizations? What are the preferred leadership styles among different generations? How do different generations perceive and respond to authority figures? How do different generations approach following instructions and adhering to guidelines? What are the preferred methods of recruitment among different generations? How do different generations prioritize and evaluate job opportunities during the recruitment process? How do different generations approach training and professional development within their careers? What are the preferred learning methods for different generations when it comes to training? How do different generations perceive mentorship and seek mentorship opportunities? What are the attitudes of different generations toward cross-generational collaboration and knowledge sharing?
- Bermudez, Lt. Col. Kelli M., "Cross-Gender Mentoring and the Benefits to Women in Career Development," AWC PSP, 2020, 23 pgs.
- Bytauberg, Capt. Ieva, "The Military Mother: The Experiences of Active-Duty Department of the Air Force Mothers," George Mason University course paper, 2022, 37 pgs.
- Mannion, Col. Michael J., "General Officer Models through Time," AWC Strategic Studies paper, 2020, 32 pgs.
- Matejka, Maj. Jack, "Resiliency Reimagined," ACSC elective paper (Innovators by Design), 2020, 11 pgs.
- McGee, Lt. Col. Ross W., "Navigating through Generations: How Generational Study Can Strengthen Relationships in Preparation for Large Scale Combat operations," AWC Strategic Studies Paper (Resilience Research Task Force), 2024, 32 pgs. Winner of the AWC Culture and Language Center Award
- Nelson, Remoshay, "Is the U.S. Military's TikTok Ban a Defense Strategy or a Recruitment Roadblock," AF Fellows paper (AF Legislative Fellow), 2024, 4 pgs.
- Pazak, Col. Stephen M., "The Recipe for Sustaining the All Volunteer Army," AWC Strategic Studies Paper, 2020, 29 pgs.
- Roth, Lt. Col. Jim, "SWIPE Right: Tapping into the Unique Chemistry Between Generation Z and the Air National Guard," AWC Strategic Studies Paper, 2020, 35 pgs. Award Winner: Reserve Component Award
- Schraeder, Lt. col. Brandon, "A Commander's Practical Guide: Developing and Mentoring," AWC paper, 2018, 24 pgs.
- Sterling, Col. Michelle L., "Leveling Up for Gen Z--The National Security Talent Crisis," AF Fellows Paper (Woodrow Wilson Center), 2024, 3 pgs.
- von Thaden, Shannon, "Improving Air Force Acquisitions: Increasing Performance and Job Satisfaction for Generation Z Employees in the Remote Working Environment," GCPME thesis, 2024, 48 pgs.
- Zhu, Lt. Col. Bai Lan, "Generational Differences in the Department of Defense: What Military Leaders Need to Know," AWC Strategic Studies Paper, 2022, 38 pgs.