Think Tank Join a cohort

Research by CGOs. Briefed to senior leaders.

Join a research cohort

In partnership with Air University

For CGOs.
Supported by CGOs.

The Think Tank is the Department of the Air Force Company Grade Officers' Council (DAF CGOC) premier research opportunity.

  1. Access

    Increase research accessibility and opportunity for our young officers.

  2. Collaboration

    A collaborative environment among the Company Grade Officer cohort.

  3. Solutions

    Innovative solutions and proposals, driven by CGOs.

Pick a question from Air University's list.

Through our partnership with Air University, cohorts choose from Air University's complete list of research topics: the priorities of our Air Force senior leaders.

Here are some of the possible topic areas, among others.

  1. China
  2. Russia/Ukraine
  3. Competition
  4. Emerging Technology
  5. AI/ML & Automation
  6. Airpower Concepts
  7. Nuclear
  8. Joint Warfighting
  9. Whole of Society
  10. Allies & Partners
  11. Talent Management
  12. Leadership & Decisions
Air University research topics (opens in a new tab)

For more, including the questions in each area and the current list, go to Air University's page.

From cohort to Presentation Day.

Five steps, with Air University and the Think Tank Committee alongside the whole way.

  1. Match

    The final CGO cohort is matched, and Air University receives the list of participants.

  2. Kick-off

    Our Think Tank Committee leads hold a kick-off call with each cohort and set expectations and timelines.

  3. Research

    Research begins, with routine check-ins with an Air University research expert and the Think Tank Committee.

  4. Review

    The paper is completed and submitted to Air University and the Think Tank Committee. Advisory panels pressure-test the research for analytical integrity and strategic readiness prior to Presentation Day.

  5. Publish and present

    The paper is published, and Air University sets up a Presentation Day for the cohort to brief senior Air Force leadership.

Join a CGO research cohort.

The Think Tank Committee matches cohorts and will contact you at the email you give.

Who can apply
All Company Grade Officers employed by the Department of the Air Force are eligible to apply. That includes Space Force, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve officers.
Time commitment
Selected participants are expected to actively engage in all core program components. While the precise weekly hours may fluctuate depending on the phase of research and collaboration, acceptance into the program requires a steadfast commitment to dedicating sufficient time each week to contribute meaningfully, meet project milestones, and collaborate with peers.

Research experience

It does not have to be military.

Your details are used only to run the Think Tank. They are seen by DAF CGOC program administrators, and by Air University once your cohort is confirmed.