It’s a concern that the U.S. Navy only achieved 65 percent of its recruitment objective in the first quarter of the 2024 fiscal year. Of all the units in the U.S. armed forces, this was the least successful result. We saw the U.S. Army also fall short in its recruitment efforts, although they edged nearer to their target by making it 74 percent of the way there.

In fact, 2023 was recorded as the worst year for recruitment for not only the Navy but all U.S. military, since the establishment of the all-volunteer force. Only the Marine Corps and Space Force met their 2023 recruitment targets. Meanwhile, the Air Force kicked off a successful first quarter of 2024 by overshooting its target goal.

So, what’s the bottom line? The Navy—and evidently, the Army—are struggling with recruitment. But, the question remains, how can this problem be resolved? The first step is to understand our potential recruits, who are largely from Generation Z.

In December 2023, the acting Undersecretary for Personnel and Readiness, Ashish Vazirani, highlighted the issues associated with trying to recruit members of Generation Z [individuals born between 1997 and 2012].

He found that these prospective recruits, who are currently aged between 18-27, generally exhibit a low level of trust in institutions. This lack of confidence proves to be a significant hurdle in our mission to inspire this generation to rise to the challenge and serve their nation.

So, what’s the plan for making the Navy service attractive to Gen Z? Firstly, we must engage them on their platforms—namely, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube. As a parent of four Gen Z children, I can vouch for their preference for these social media platforms over traditional TV. Simply put, if we wish to efficiently reach them, we must infiltrate their digital habitats.

But what about the content? Previously, the Navy has amplified the allure of the more glamorous roles available, like those of the Navy SEALs and jet-fighter pilots. Yet, today’s youth are savvy—they’re well aware that these high-profile roles represent only a fraction of the jobs the Navy offers. Instead, we need to be clear about what we offer and highlight the benefits that come with a stint in the Navy.

For instance, reflecting on my personal experience, my eldest son aspires to break into the aerospace engineering field. I suggested to him that he might consider seeking an Air Force ROTC scholarship, which would pay for his undergraduate studies and provide him with a solid four-year foundation in hands-on aerospace engineering through the Air Force.

He embraced the idea, secured the scholarship, and is now preparing for a unique educational journey—one that will guide him toward active duty service in the Air Force.

In sharing this option with him, I didn’t resort to manipulative tactics or emotional pleas. I simply presented the proposal as it was: an opportunity for an excellent start in his chosen field, courtesy of an ROTC scholarship.

Promoting patriotism and duty was not my purpose—although these factors undeniably influenced his decision. It was the promise of a jumpstart in aerospace engineering and the prospect of having his tuition paid for that clinched the deal.

So, how can we carry this message over to the Navy’s recruitment efforts? I suggest targeting these young individuals on the communication platforms they frequent. There, the Navy should be upfront and transparent about career opportunities and their associated benefits.

Furthermore, remind them that military service need not be a lifelong commitment. Highlight the fact that most military personnel only serve temporarily before transitioning back to civilian life and other careers. Stress how the Navy can aid their transition into civilian roles by offering invaluable experience, training, and life skills acquired during their service.

Those of us who are friends or relatives of a young person mulling over a career or tour of duty need to rally behind the idea of military service. My experience in the military was life-changing, and I’m confident it is the same for many others who have served.

The returns from military service are abundant, both tangible and intangible—like personal satisfaction. Volunteering in the service of your nation not only gives one a sense of pride and accomplishment, but it instills a feeling of responsibility towards one’s country. Regularly reminding our youth of this can gradually diminish the lack of trust they hold in institutions.