Intellectual Overmatch Is Impossible If We Teach Only Half the Team: A Call for Professional Civilian Education

Authors

Laura J. Junor Pulzone, Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University
Justin Lynch

Files

Description

This commentary discusses the challenge of achieving intellectual overmatch in U.S. national security competition when civilian professionals across the national security enterprise receive uneven education and development opportunities compared with military personnel. The authors highlight the Joint Chiefs of Staff’s vision emphasizing both technical and intellectual overmatch, talent management, and rigorous education for military forces, but argue that without parallel investment in professional civilian education and workforce development, the U.S. cannot sustain a whole-of-government competitive advantage. The piece calls for expanding intellectual development opportunities, interagency collaboration, and deliberate talent management across civilian and military ranks to meet evolving strategic demands.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

National Security, Defense Policy, Leadership

Region(s)

United States, Indo-Pacific, Europe

Publication Date

2-4-2021

Keywords

intellectual overmatch, civilian education, professional education, Joint Chiefs of Staff, talent management, national security workforce, interagency development, education reform, strategic competition

Recommended Citation

Junor Pulzone, Laura J. and Lynch, Justin, "Intellectual Overmatch Is Impossible If We Teach Only Half the Team: A Call for Professional Civilian Education" (2021). Strategic Insights. 19.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-insights/19