Rethinking Space Force Personnel Reform

In this paper, the authors build on Todd Harrison’s call for the transformational reform of the U.S. Space Force (USSF) personnel system. Although the authors agree with Harrison's objectives—including normalizing lateral entry and reentry and promoting merit-based career progression—they propose a more pragmatic and more fully informed implementation strategy that accounts for the strides the USSF has made in personnel reform and the logistical challenges and constraints of a small and lean force. 

The authors caution against making sweeping, system-wide changes without the necessary infrastructure and cultural norms. Instead, they advocate for phased or piloted experimentation through targeted programs, streamlined lateral entry pathways, and the refinement of ongoing reforms. By balancing bold innovation with available resources and operational feasibility, the USSF can scale effective changes while mitigating risks associated with a wholesale structural overhaul.