The Space Force is paving the way for part-time Guardians to join the ranks, offering opportunities in test, evaluation, training, planning, and temporary full-time deployments or multiweek TDYs. Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force John F. Bentivegna shared insights on this new approach during an AFA Warfighters in Action fireside chat on May 10. The Space Force Personnel Management Act, signed in December, eliminates the traditional “regular” and “reserve” components in favor of a combined full-time and part-time system.
This shift towards a part-time force offers flexibility for Guardians to adapt to changing life circumstances without the bureaucratic hurdles of switching between components. Bentivegna emphasized that this model allows the Space Force to leverage the deep expertise of Guardians while streamlining chain-of-command structures for improved unity of command and readiness.
While the Space Force is set to open full-time positions for current Air Force Reservists this summer, the focus is now on developing systems and processes for part-time Guardians. The challenge lies in defining part-time roles, establishing payment structures, and implementing tracking systems. The service has five years to fully implement these changes under the Space Force Personnel Management Act, but Bentivegna expressed a desire to expedite this process, aiming for completion within a year.
Chief of Space Operations Gen. B Chance Saltzman outlined potential part-time roles in a memo, highlighting opportunities in education, training, test units, and key staff positions. The emphasis is on utilizing part-time Guardians in institutional and service-retained functions rather than maintaining mission-ready status in 24/7 operations.
Part-time Guardians may find themselves engaged in deployable capabilities, such as testing new weapons systems or participating as adversaries in major exercises like Red Flag. These missions align with the expertise part-timers bring from their civilian careers, offering a unique blend of skills to enhance Space Force operations. Communication is key in painting a clear vision for potential part-timers, showcasing the value they bring to the service and exciting them about future opportunities under the Personnel Management Act.
As the Space Force continues to refine its part-time force structure, Guardians and potential recruits eagerly await more details on how this new model will shape their roles within the service. By clarifying expectations, defining responsibilities, and highlighting the unique contributions of part-time Guardians, the Space Force aims to create a dynamic and effective force capable of meeting the challenges of modern space operations.
