Introduction
Several studies indicate that military veterans acquire specific competencies that might be used in the civilian setting. The distinguished skill set generally includes the qualities of teamwork, leadership, discipline, and resilience, all of which are essential in most industries. The study problem is the research gap concerning the differences between pre-9/11 and post-9/11 military veterans in the United States is still prevalent in the field. The purpose of the current doctoral project is to examine the distinguished competencies of post-9/11 veterans and analyze the associated competitive advantages in the business setting on the example of Yorktown System Group’s employees. The research questions are the following:
- RQ1. What are the competencies of the post-9/11 military mindset that are transferable to YSG’s business setting?
- RQ2. What competitive advantages or benefits does YSG possess through the hiring of post 9/11 era veterans?
- RQ3. How can YSG incorporate these competencies and advantages to facilitate organizational success?
The study will utilize the qualitative research method and the case study design. The selected method will allow for in-depth research of post-9/11 veterans’ perspectives, beliefs, and perceived competitive advantages in the business setting. Consequently, the case study design will allow for a thorough examination of one organizational entity – Yorktown System Group. The research instruments will include surveys, questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews with the employees of YSG. The implementation of three data collection instruments will ensure the reliability and validity of the study. The proposed sampling size for the research includes seventeen people: semi-structured interviews with two senior executives and fifteen surveys/questionnaires with HR managers and post-9/11 veterans. Lastly, the study will utilize the deductive coding and content analysis approaches of data analysis, which will ensure the validity of the results.
Preface
The purpose of the current doctoral study project is to provide insights into the competitive advantages of post-9/11 military veterans in the business setting. I have chosen this specific topic due to the firm belief that the 9/11 events have drastically changed the military culture in the United States, which would ultimately be reflected in the competencies of the soldiers. I believe that the military experience and extensive combat exposure of post-9/11 veterans significantly affect the mindset of the individual, which might be highly beneficial in the business setting. Furthermore, a large number of organizations might be unaware of the potential competitive advantages of the examined target group and deny them the opportunity for employment. This perspective negatively affects all stakeholders, including both organizations and post-9/11 veterans. Ultimately, I believe that the current doctoral study project might make a positive change and alleviate the misconceptions of executives and HR managers concerning the competencies of post-9/11 veterans in the business setting.
Conclusion
In the process of the study, I have acquired vast knowledge regarding the competencies of post-9/11 veterans, the impact of combat exposure on soldiers, conceptual frameworks of organizational culture, and research methodology. The acquired understanding helped me finish the project and will most definitely be beneficial for my future work. The research was extensive, and it was frequently difficult to retain my inspiration and focus on the objectives. Therefore, I would like to thank my supervisors for their guidance, support, and additional motivation when the extent of the project felt overwhelming. I would also like to thank my family and friends for their emotional support. Ultimately, I firmly believe that the success of the current project is also possible due to the cooperative efforts, and I could never thank everyone who participated enough.