Topic Labor Markets Key Words Recruiting, Unemployment, Career, Training, Pay News Story Military recruiting is tough this year. The Army expects to fall short of its goal by 8 percent, while the Air Force will be 10 percent below target, making it the worst recruiting year in two decades. Surveys and interviews indicate that potential recruits are being attracted to the civilian labor market where unemployment is barely over 4 percent.
Young people are keen to go to college and have a career.
Even when they choose to enlist, money for college and training outweigh the motive of duty to country. A military career is not attractive to many. People perceive a lack of freedom. They have to endure boot camp - at a time when many young people are out of shape. They perceive military personnel as engaged in unpleasant and dangerous activities and being moved frequently.