Schiess Becomes Third Chief of Space Operations
On September 3, Gen. Douglas Schiess was sworn in as the new chief of space operations for the US Space Force, succeeding Gen. B. Chance Saltzman, who retired after almost four years of leadership.
Schiess, who previously served as the deputy chief of space operations for operations, was nominated for the position in May, confirmed by the Senate Armed Services Committee in July, and officially appointed in August. During his swearing-in ceremony at Joint Base Andrews, he emphasized the vital importance of space superiority to the nation’s economy, security, and way of life.
Pressing Challenges
In his statements, Schiess highlighted growing threats from adversaries like China and Russia, noting that these nations are increasingly attempting to undermine US space capabilities. His mission as CSO aims not at confrontation, but at deterrence, ensuring adversaries recognize the futility of aggression against the United States.
Workforce Concerns
A recent RAND report indicated significant workforce shortfalls within the US military’s space sector, which could hinder the swift reconstruction of military space assets after an attack. The report advocated for investments in the defense-industrial base to enhance the workforce supporting national security space infrastructure.
Recommendations
To address workforce challenges, the RAND report made several recommendations, including:
- Developing national security priorities intertwined with the defense industry’s workforce.
- Funding internships and scholarships to cultivate careers in space.
- Allowing ROTC graduates to fulfill service obligations at approved national-security companies.
- Investigating automation to fill workforce gaps while encouraging more individuals to join skilled space jobs.
This appointment and the accompanying challenges underscore the critical role that effective leadership and workforce readiness play in securing the United States’ interests in space.
