How Post-Millennial Soldiers Desire to be Led: Implications for Current and Future Army Noncommissioned Officer Leadership Training

December 3, 2025

How Post-Millennial Soldiers Desire to be Led: Implications for Current and Future Army Noncommissioned Officer Leadership Training

Roland David Hanks | 2021

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the leadership preferences of post-Millennial U.S. Army soldiers born between 1996 and 2002 and stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama. This study used structured in-depth interviews to discover firsthand what this generational cohort desired from noncommissioned officers (NCOs). A purposeful sampling system of 20 soldiers enabled a sample that was reflective of the current demographics of the Army in race, gender, and ethnicity. The interview responses provided the data, which the researcher analyzed using a variety of coding methods such as topic, thematic, NVivo, and analytic coding, which provided 34 codes. Secondary coding produced 6 themes, including Army values, confidence, fairness, and empathy. The responses illustrated that post-Millennial soldiers want NCOs who are honest above all else. Post-Millennial soldiers stated they wanted reciprocal relationships with their NCOs characterized by mutual respect, transparency, and constructive feedback. They desire professional, competent NCOs who are role models, coaches, and mentors. Post-Millennial soldiers want organized, stable NCOs who provide a rhythm and routine. They want selfless and empathetic NCOs who put their soldiers’ needs above their own and who understand that life is more than just work. An important insight for NCOs is that they can incorporate what post-Millennial soldiers stated as leadership preferences to become more successful. This study provides insights for senior Army leadership on the outdated condition of its NCO training and professional development education systems. The implications provide recommendations to Army training and doctrine leaders on areas of improvement. This paper concludes with suggestions for further research on this and similar topics.

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