Special Forces Warrant Officer (JIIM)

JIIM Environment Working in a JIIM environment requires specific skills, knowledge, and abilities. DA Pam 600-3, Commissioned Officer Professional Development and Career Management, lists several unique attributes that a Special Forces Warrant Officer must possess. One in particular that relates to operating in a Joint, Interagency, Intergovernmental, and Multinational (JIIM) environment is a combination of good interpersonal skills coupled with cross-cultural communication abilities. The document continues to elaborate by stating that mission success may rely upon rapport and influence gained through these skills. The Rand article, “Developing U.S. Army Officer’s Capabilities for Joint, Interagency, Intergovernmental, and Multinational Environments,” also addresses the need for interpersonal skills and integration skills to achieve success in a JIIM environment. The Army has already adapted much of what the Rand article relays. Many of the Officer requirements in the 2014 DA Pam 600-3 require or suggest JIIM assignments. These are not just for Special Forces, but, for example, an Artillery Officer also has

The Special Forces Warrant Officer generally has the most experience and speaks with authority on Special Operation specific issues. This lends to the SFODA’s credibility, as the Warrant Officer is able to interact with elements in a JIIM setting and use experience to negotiate social encounters. The Warrant Officer may have experienced situations based on his experience and may have knowledge that crosses tactical, operational and strategic echelons. Having interpersonal skills and cross-cultural communication expertise is not a new concept for Special Forces and has long been necessity before labeling JIIM environment with its current name. Rapport and influence have always been a requirement especially when dealing with multinational