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Space Force releases framework to forge future enlisted leaders
ARLINGTON, V.A. (AFNS) -- The Space Force has introduced its Core Enlisted Framework, a foundational document that codifies the service's commitment to the development of its enlisted members. This new strategy outlines a deliberate career-long path to guide Guardians as they transition from tactical-level experts to operational leaders to strategic-level thinkers.
The framework allows every enlisted Guardian to chart the progression of their core focus, key responsibilities, and developmental goals throughout their careers. It also identifies several key skills that are critical for all Guardians to master, regardless of their rank: Initiative, Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving, Outcome Focused, Team-Mindedness, and Leadership.
“The Core Enlisted Framework provides a foundation for how we will grow Guardians across their careers, from building tactical expertise early on to preparing enlisted leaders for broader operational responsibility,” said Katharine Kelley, Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Personnel. “It is not a rigid checklist or a single roadmap, because each Guardian’s path will be shaped by mission needs, talent, and opportunity. By aligning training, education, and development, this framework helps ensure our enlisted force is ready to meet the demands of a contested space domain today and into the future.”
Each enlisted Guardians journey begins with a focus on foundational mastery in the specialist ranks (E-1 to E-4), advances to team leadership and mentorship as non-commissioned officers (E-5 to E-6) and culminates in operational leadership at the rank of master sergeant (E-7).
"This framework is intended to cultivate the skills we need in our World-Class Master Sergeants," said Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna. "The Space Force of the future will need Guardians who are subject matter experts, but also experienced at teaching, training, and mentorship. If we get this development right, we will naturally have the talent to cultivate E-8 and E-9s. But it all starts with ensuring our force understands their role at every level.”
Upon promotion to senior master sergeant and chief master sergeant, Guardians become "Space Force Specialty Code agnostic," enabling them to take on a broad range of institutional leadership roles regardless of their original technical specialty.
Ultimately, the Core Enlisted Framework is the Space Force's blueprint for cultivating strategic advantages through its people. By intentionally managing the training, education, and development of its enlisted Guardians, the service builds leaders with the critical expertise needed to secure our nation’s interests in, from and to space.
Read the Core Enlisted Framework here.