IDF launches new 'Gamah' unit to overhaul officer recruitment, retention, redeployment - interview
Besides desk jobs, "There are also more opportunities than ever to return or start a new career track in combat or in the combat support arena," Lt.-Col. Anat emphasized.
Israel is set to introduce a new unit called Gamah to improve the management of career officers in the IDF. Led by IDF Lt.-Col. Anat, the unit aims to better recruit, retain, and redeploy officers based on their education and career needs.
Anat emphasized the need to match people's later education with career track roles in the military. Previously, officers who failed to advance within their original field had no alternative paths for advancement. With the new Gamah unit, officers will have broader strategic opportunities to develop their talents for the IDF.
Anat explained that the unit addresses many non-officers or officers who have reached a ceiling in their career track program by allowing them to transfer to other areas such as law, logistics, human resources, or specialized desk jobs like cyber or intelligence. In some cases, wounded commanders can be retrained for roles in cyber or intelligence.
The new unit will also help officers receive disability benefits and assist reservists and civilians to return to the IDF's career track. With more reservists expressing interest in career track positions since October 7, 2023, the Gamah unit aims to leverage their experience and knowledge.
Anat highlighted the importance of career service officers in various sectors of the IDF, from combat fighters to intelligence and computer specialists. However, she expressed concern about the intense demands placed on these officers during the recent war, which have taken a toll on their well-being.
Additionally, Anat noted that career service track pensions have diminished compared to previous years. Nevertheless, the new unit will advocate for and support the families of career service officers, providing flexible job options for spouses and enhancing educational opportunities for officers.
While the career track positions may not offer top hi-tech salaries, Anat stressed that the benefits of a defined service commitment and making a significant impact on the country's security cannot be matched by civilian jobs. The Gamah unit, consisting of three branches and 30 professionals, will oversee the implementation of these changes.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
