The U.S. Space Force has introduced a new framework that outlines a structured path to guide the development of its enlisted force and create future leaders capable of operating in a contested space domain.
The U.S. Space Force is accelerating its transformation into a warfighting service capable of defeating adversaries and achieving superiority in a contested space domain. Find out the capabilities that the Space Force needs from industry to achieve its mission at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Air and Space Summit on July 30. Top Department of War and Space Force leaders will be present at the event to share insights, provide updates on ongoing initiatives and identify new priorities. Get your tickets today.
What Is the Space Force Core Enlisted Framework?
The Core Enlisted Framework, published Friday, serves as a career-long roadmap for guardians, defining how they evolve from tactical specialists, or E-1 to E-4, to operational leaders and strategic thinkers. According to the Space Force, enlisted personnel begin their careers by mastering foundational skills at the entry level before progressing into leadership and mentorship roles as non-commissioned officers.
At higher levels, guardians transition into broader operational leadership roles, with master sergeants, or E-7, expected to integrate deep technical expertise with mission execution and organizational leadership. Senior enlisted leaders eventually become specialty-agnostic, enabling them to take on institution-wide responsibilities.
“This framework is intended to cultivate the skills we need in our world-class master sergeants,” John Bentivegna, chief master sergeant of the Space Force, stated. “The Space Force of the future will need guardians who are subject matter experts, but also experienced at teaching, training, and mentorship. If we get this development right, we will naturally have the talent to cultivate E-8 and E-9s. But it all starts with ensuring our force understands their role at every level.”
Senior master sergeants and chief master sergeants are designated E-8 and E-9, respectively, Military.com reported.
The framework aligns with the Space Force’s Vector 2025, which guides the service’s transition into a highly skilled warfighting organization. Issued in November, Vector listed force development as a service-level activity critical to achieving its mission to achieve and maintain space superiority.
What Key Skills Must All Guardians Master?
The Core Enlisted Framework also identified several competencies essential across all ranks:
- Initiative
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Outcome focus
- Team-mindedness
- Leadership
According to the Space Force, the skills will help guardians operate effectively in complex environments, make informed decisions and collaborate across teams to achieve mission success.
