Workforce Development and Readiness

Case Study

Workforce Development and Readiness

National Defense University Capstone Education Program

About Flatter, Inc

Solutions for National Security — Founded in 2002, Flatter, Inc. is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). We deliver solutions that enhance the security, readiness, and effectiveness of our nation. By placing the needs and growth of service members at the forefront, we enable them to meet the demands of an ever-changing strategic environment. Our core capabilities include Mission Acceleration, Workforce Development & Readiness, and Digital Transformation & Modernization.

Purpose driven, future ready — We believe that people are the driving force behind strategy execution. To meet the challenges of tomorrow, we must embrace a cultural transformation. By championing the principles of service before self, fostering a commitment to lifelong learning, and challenging ourselves to continuously improve, we aim to provide the highest level of leadership to those who will guide us into the future.

Overview

For nearly a decade, and over more than three prime contracts, Flatter, Inc. has been the prime contractor for the National Defense University’s (NDU) CAPSTONE Education Program, providing vital support in developing the next generation of senior military leadership. Our role has been to deliver unparalleled guidance and mentorship to newly selected general and flag officers, ensuring they are prepared to tackle the challenges of senior command through the wisdom and experience of retired 3–4-star officers and senior enlisted leaders (E9s), known as Senior Fellows.

Program Objectives

The CAPSTONE Education Program aims to prepare newly appointed general and flag officers for the complexities of strategic leadership. This program:

Enhances understanding of the U.S. defense community, key national security issues, and the challenges facing today’s senior leaders.
Provides mentorship and guidance from retired senior leaders with deep experience and connections within the global defense community.
Offers exposure to real-world scenarios through field studies and engagement with senior U.S. and foreign leaders.

Flatter's Role & Approach

As the prime contractor, Flatter, Inc. has been responsible for executing this highly complex and dynamic training program, supporting NDU’s mission to foster leadership development through the following activities:

Flatter Executive Cadre: Flatter recruits and deployed Senior Fellows—retired 3-4 star generals/admirals and senior enlisted leaders—who provide mentorship, share lessons learned, and act as a conduit for lifelong learning for new general and flag officers. These Senior Fellows offer unique perspectives drawn from their extensive careers and global networks.
Comprehensive Program Management: Our team has managed 12 complex training events annually, coordinating hundreds of travel actions, and ensuring seamless participation in classroom seminars, field studies, and cultural engagements, both in the continental U.S. (CONUS) and overseas (OCONUS).
Facilitation of Strategic Engagements: We facilitated the connection between newly appointed officers and senior military and civilian leaders worldwide, leveraging the Senior Fellows’ accumulated relationships to provide exclusive access and insights that are critical for strategic leadership.

Key Accomplishments

Flatter’s exceptional management and strategic execution have resulted in several notable outcomes:

Enhanced Leadership Development: Our provision of Senior Fellows with unparalleled experience has enriched the CAPSTONE curriculum, providing new officers with real-world insights, mentorship, and practical knowledge from those who have led at the highest levels of the military.
Seamless Execution of Complex Training Events: We successfully manage dozens of annual courses, involving extensive CONUS and OCONUS travel logistics, coordination with U.S. Embassies, and engagement with senior leaders across various regions. This ensured a comprehensive learning experience aligned with NDU’s objectives.
Strengthened Global Military Partnerships: Through facilitated interactions with foreign military leaders, ambassadors, and Combatant Commanders, the CAPSTONE program has helped strengthen global partnerships, fostering a better understanding of regional security concerns and collaborative defense strategies.

Our Impact

Flatter, Inc.’s role in the CAPSTONE Education Program has been critical in preparing senior military leaders to meet the complexities of modern warfare and strategic command:

Mentorship and Lifelong Learning: By connecting new leaders with seasoned mentors, we have provided a sustainable reach-back capability that fosters lifelong learning and continuous professional development.
Strategic Acumen and Global Perspective: Our support has enabled new general and flag officers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the strategic landscape, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions that impact national security.
Operational Readiness and Leadership Resilience: The experience and insights provided by the Senior Fellows have strengthened the readiness and resilience of the next generation of military leaders, preparing them to lead effectively in diverse and challenging environments.

Conclusion

Flatter, Inc.’s longstanding partnership with the National Defense University in the CAPSTONE Education Program exemplifies our commitment to workforce development and readiness. By providing seasoned mentors, managing complex logistics, and fostering strategic engagements, we have helped shape a new generation of senior military leaders, ensuring they are well-equipped to support national defense objectives and maintain global security. This case study underscores Flatter’s dedication to developing a strong and capable defense workforce, prepared to navigate the evolving challenges of military leadership in the 21st century.

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Case Study