National Security Civilians

U.S. national security requires a capable cadre of civilian professionals with the expertise and experience necessary to develop and execute a sound national security strategy. Civilians serving in national security positions within the federal government include political appointees and civil servants. Political appointees provide strategic direction, policy oversight, and leadership, translating an administration’s policies into actionable guidance, regulations, norms, and practices. Civil servants provide nonpartisan operational support, program management, technical expertise, institutional knowledge, and continuity, ensuring the effectiveness of U.S. national security policy as set by political appointees.

Accessing civilian talent possessing the knowledge, skillsets, experience, and desire to serve the nation is a critical component of national security. Military requirements are clearly defined through end strengths set by Congress, whereas the specific composition of the civilian national security workforce is less clearly outlined. Given the significant impact of decisions made and carried out by national security political appointees and civil servants, it is crucial to clearly outline the specific requirements and skills necessary for key roles within the national security apparatus. To enable the nation’s warfighters to meet the strategic objectives of deterrence and defeat would-be adversaries, the federal government must also attract top talent interested in public service and effectively leverage their skillsets.

Moreover, the U.S. national security enterprise is strengthened by the defense industrial base (DIB), which currently faces workforce challenges including talent shortages in high-skill career fields, an aging workforce, and a competition for talent across other sectors.

The CNAS National Security Human Capital Program produces comprehensive research and policy recommendations regarding the roles, requirements, effectiveness, challenges, and opportunities within the federal civilian national security workforce. The program addresses workforce dynamics in industries supporting the federal government throughout the DIB. The program further examines mechanisms of the civil-military relationship, including the complex dynamics between civilian political leaders, military institutions, and society, examining how the U.S. military interacts with elected officials, the executive branch, and the broader public. The NSHC Program analyzes how these relationships shape U.S. defense policy, military strategy, combat capability, and national security decisions.