Generational Effects of Millennial Employment in the U.S. Nuclear Security Culture

While much research has been conducted about the impact of the millennial generation on employment in civilian industry, there is a gap in knowledge about how this demographic has affected nuclear security culture. Over the last two decades, Baby Boomers (1946-1964) have been leaving the workforce. Generation X (1965-1980) and Millennials (1980-1997) have been filling these vacancies as well as stepping into newly created positions. However, over the last decade the US’s millennial labor workforce has nearly doubled from 25% to just over 50%. By comparison, the Baby Boomer’s numbers have declined by the same amount while the GenX share has remained constant [1]. Just as understanding human reliability is essential to building strong nuclear security programs, so too, is understanding the effects of generational shifts on the overall nuclear security culture. This study explores cultural factors that complicate the identification, prevention, and mitigation of insider threat. These factors include attitudes, behaviors, and characteristics, as well as the potential associated risks and benefits to nuclear security communities. We start with an introduction of malicious millennial insider activity within the Defense and Intelligence community to highlight the potential impacts of generational factors in high-consequence security settings. Specifically, we focus on how generational factors can influence the motivations for malicious activity or the propensity for negligent behavior and can confound insider threat warning-signs. Finally, we explore recommendations for reducing potential impacts of millennial culture and improving organization allegiance in diverse organizations.