JESK Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea

Assessment of Human Performance in Military Work based on Occupational Competence

David Shin , Youngjae Im
10.5143/JESK.2025.44.2.129 Epub 2025 May 02

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Abstract

Objective: This paper examines whether women's human performance is suitable for the combat unit's commander positions.

Background: There has been a long debate about women's role in the military, mainly serving in specialties and positions that involve direct combat on the ground. The most controversial issue concerning women in the military is the integration of women into combat roles.

Method: The t-test and uniquely designed interaction assessment method were used to assess the occupational competence of men and women using the survey data of 964 enlistees in 51 combat units. Also, a semi-structured interview was conducted to evaluate the participation of women in the military qualitatively.

Results: The analysis results showed no difference in the occupational competence between men and women, except the artillery Army and infantry Marine.

Conclusion: It is concluded that women's physical fitness should not be the central issue in the debate of military person-job fit.

Application: This research is expected to contribute to the future discussions on the dynamics for the integration of women in the military.

Keywords

Human performance Occupational competence Military work Physical fitness

References

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